Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan

Home , Benjamin Rush State Park, Erie to Pittsburgh Trail, Gettysburg Battlefield, Great Allegheny Passage, Lehigh River, Perkiomen Trail

P e n n s y l v a n i a ’ s S t a t e w i d e C o m p r e h e n s i v e O u t d o o r R e c r e a t i o n P l a n 2 0 1 4 - 2 0 1 9

n a t u r a l c o n n e c t i o n s C ontents

A cknowledgements...... 1 Letter from the Governor...... 2 Executive summary...... 3 Introduction...... 6 Background Plan Purpose Foundation for Success T he people’s plan...... 9 Citizen Surveys Provider Survey Public Feedback

The preparation of this plan was R esearch and trends...... 12 financed in part through a Land Our Changing Populations and Water Conservation Fund Research Findings planning grant, and the plan was approved by the National Park National Outdoor Trends Service, U.S. Department of Technology the Interior under the provisions for the Federal Land and Water Priority areas...... 30 Conservation Fund Act of 1965 Health and Wellness (Public Law 88-578). Local Parks and Recreation National Park Service – Economic Development and Tourism Jack Howard, David Lange Resource Management and Stewardship and Sherry Peck Funding and Financial Sustainability im plementation matrix...... 85 Acronyms...... 94 Appendices on attached disk A. Foundation for Success: An Overview of the 2009-2013 Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Plan B. Outdoor Recreation in Pennsylvania Resident Survey C. Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Online Surveys D. Pennsylvania Local Park and Recreation Provider Survey E. Trends and Demographic Analysis F. Pennsylvania Local Parks and the Communities They Serve G. Pennsylvania Wetlands Update H. Pennsylvania Land and Water Trail Network Strategic Plan 2014-2019 I. Case Studies and Best Practices

2014–2019 Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Plan ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

T echnical Advisory Committee R esearch Team – National Park Service Center for Rural PA PA State Association of Penn State Sherry Peck Barry Denk Township Supervisors University David Lange Jonathan Johnson Holly Fishel Andrew Mowen Allegheny National Forest Delaware & Lehigh National Penn State Hershey PRO Alan Graefe Jim Seyler Heritage Corridor, Inc. Wellness Center William Elmendorf Elissa Garofalo Donna Kephart U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Austin Barrett Scott Everett Alicia Hoke Gary Stolz National Wild Turkey County Commissioners USDA – Rural Development D epartment of Federation Association of PA Office Bob Eriksen Lisa Schaefer Conservation and Tom Williams Ray Smith Adrienne Hodson Natural Resources Angela Callie Jeff Gatano PA Council of Trout Unlimited Rails-To-Trails Conservancy Advisory Team Samantha Kutskel Tom Sexton PA Department of Agriculture Lauren Adair Pat Tomes Erin Smith PA Downtown Center Stephen Aux Mary Bender Julie Fitzpatrick Lancaster Recreation Paula Devore Bill Fontana Commission Cynthia Dunlap PA Department of Aging Sue Landes Mike Eschenmann Lauren Merlie PA Environmental Council Jason Hall Paul King Lower Providence Township PA Department of Community Meredith Hill Patrick Starr Karen Hegedus and Economic Development Lauren Imgrund Davitt Woodwell Scott Dunkelberger Pashek Associates Jeff Johns PA Federation of Bob Good Chris Kemmerer PA Department of Education Sportsmen’s Clubs John Buerkle Diane Kripas Dave Bauman Josh First Gretchen Leslie Sally Flaherty S & S Processing John Kline Rebecca Oyler Chris Lessig PA Department of Zack Roeder PA Parks & Forests Environmental Protection Blue Mountain Recreation Kelly Rossiter Foundation Kim Hoover Commission Vanyla Tierney Marci Mowery Laura Henry Mark Palerino PA Land Trust Association PA Department of Health Berks Conservancy Plan writer and editor: Andy Loza Serina Gaston Kim Murphy Gretchen Leslie Justin Lehman PA Recreation & Park Pottstown Health & Contributing writers: Society PA Historical and Museum Wellness Foundation Austin Barrett, William Elmendorf, Karen Burke Commission David Kraybill Meredith Hill, Lauren Imgrund, Emily Gates Bryan Van Sweden Diane Kripas, Andrew Mowen, Lehigh Valley Center for Andrea MacDonald PA State Association for Rebecca Oyler, Zachary Roeder, Independent Living Janice Mullen Health, Physical Education, Kelly Rossiter Bob Amelio Recreation & Dance PA Department of Brian Rogers Special thanks to Hannah Linda Woods-Huber Transportation Greenberg and Kathleen Eric Childs Richard King Mellon Douglas Zimmerman Wojtowicz for their assistance Foundation PA State Association of with the plan. PA Fish and Boat Commission Brian Hill Boroughs Laurel Anders Plan design: Leslie Suhr Graphics and Design, PA Game Commission PA Municipal League State College, PA Keith Snyder Mary Ann Nau Coren Jagnow Photo credits: See inside back cover

PaOutdoorRecPlan.com 1 letter from the governor

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Office of the Governor Harrisburg

the governor

D ear Fellow Pennsylvanians:

As your new governor, it gives me great pleasure to present Pennsylvania’s plan for helping our citizens connect to healthy outdoor recreation.

As a lifelong resident, I have always marveled at Pennsylvania’s natural beauty and its seemingly endless opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. Like many of you, I enjoy spending time hiking and enjoying the outdoors in the commonwealth’s state parks and forests and plan to make time for those activities during my time as governor.

Outdoor activity can be a prescription for wellness and help our citizens combat chronic diseases and illnesses. Our local parks and programs can build solid communities and provide children opportunities to connect with nature. Trails, rivers and parks can create vibrant cities and towns and contribute to economic prosperity. And, as we create these spaces to recreate, we are also working to protect our natural resources for future generations.

This plan is an outdoor recreation blueprint for all citizens, from our urban and suburban dwellers enjoying neighborhood parks, bike lanes and riverfront trails, to our more rural residents who frequently explore our vast state and federally protected lands. More than 10,000 of these citizens gave feedback on what is important to them, and the plan is reflective and inclusive of those thoughts and ideas.

It will now be up to our community and state leaders and recreation providers to act upon the recommendations and actions set forth in the following pages. I wish them much luck and success in implementing Pennsylvania’s Outdoor Recreation Plan.

Tom Wolf Governor

2 2014–2019 Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Plan E xecutive Summary

Pennsylvania’s outdoor recreation opportunities are as diverse as its people and places. Four seasons, mountains, rivers, lakes and millions of acres of forests and fields serve as the settings for just about every recreational pursuit. • Pennsylvania’s recreation professionals use the Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan to help capitalize on the natural assets and deliver facilities and programs that make it easy for people to play outdoors. As demographics, trends and interests change, a new plan every five years identifies outdoor recreation strategies that help to address societal needs.

ennsylvania’s outdoor recreation F indings plan helps to guide strategy for local This comprehensive analysis showed that Pennsyl- governments, state government and vanians’ favorite outdoor recreation pursuits haven’t other outdoor recreation providers. changed much over the last five years, when research Priorities, recommendations and action for the last plan was conducted. Walking is still the items delineate a course of action for most popular activity, which mirrors national outdoor five years and help to determine where best to make P recreation preferences. About half the population investments in recreation. participates in outdoor recreation one or more times a The 2014 plan is the culmination of research, public week, and Pennsylvanians use their local parks more input and advice from a group of professional frequently than any other facility. recreation leaders serving on a technical advisory Maintenance of existing park and recreation areas committee. For about 18 months, the committee met continues to be the top concern and priority for both to discuss themes, research and public feedback. citizens and recreation providers, even more so than in More than 10,000 people participated in one of three 2009. Citizens still place high importance on protecting surveys or commented on the draft plan. This input open space and wildlife habitat; providers of recreation from citizens and recreation providers far exceeded services feel a greater obligation to providing recreation that received from any of the previous outdoor programs and building more greenways and trails. recreation plans written over the last 50 years. Since the 2009 plan, there has been growth in unconventional gas drilling, particularly in the northcentral and western parts of the state. Although the activity is having a slight impact on certain recreational activities and is changing some people’s behavior, most Pennsylvanians have yet to come in contact with the activity while recreating.

Implementers of the plan will need to take into consideration the changing demographics and trends that are influencing how and where people recreate. Pennsylvania’s population is getting older and more diverse, which could translate into different needs and demands over the coming years.

PaOutdoorRecPlan.com 3 E xecutive Summary

Priorities The 2014 plan outlines five priority areas to help foster outdoor recreation for all Pennsylvanians. These five priorities each discuss primary challenges and opportunities, but by no means cover them all. Case studies at the end of each priority section and in Appendix I highlight successes, but scores of others exist that demonstrate examples of how recreation is improving the lives of Pennsylvanians.

• Health and Wellness • Local Parks and Recreation • Tourism and Economic Development • Resource Management and Stewardship • Funding and Financial Stability

To help carry out these five priorities, key state and local agencies and recreation providers will be guided by the 20 recommendations and 83 action steps found in this plan. A matrix of these action items, along with L ocal Parks and implementing partners, is found at the back of the plan (page 85). Recreation With more than 5,600 locations across the state, our H ealth and Wellness local parks and recreation areas are perhaps our most Outdoor recreation is key to helping address some of valuable recreation resources. More than 90 percent of today’s pressing health care issues. Creating walkable Pennsylvanians who participated in outdoor recreation and bikeable communities and making improvements visited a local park last year. Local parks are as diverse to the built environment can encourage active living. as the populations they serve, but most face similar An increased focus by the health care community on challenges — limited funding, aging infrastructure, recreation and opportunities for new partnerships maintenance and capacity to carry out programs and and coordination can lessen our obesity and chronic services. While forming stable and productive partner- disease crisis. Getting people of all ages — including ships takes commitment and creativity, new opportuni- the growing population of active seniors — connected ties and expanded capacity are gained by doing so. to the outdoors and nature can have a positive effect on New funding sources and technologies are helping to the health and wellness of our citizens. improve park and recreation officials’ abilities to meet the recreation needs of their citizens. Recommendations: 1. Reconnect people to the outdoors through Recommendations: recreation opportunities and experiences. 1. Connect citizens to close-to-home recreational 2. Continue to strengthen connections between opportunities and green space. outdoor recreation and health in communities 2. Position local park facilities and recreation programs for people of all ages and abilities. as essential services. 3. Examine the built environment and encourage 3. Create and leverage partnerships that expand outdoor local communities to promote healthful recreation opportunities. transportation alternatives. 4. Coordinate strategic investment in local priorities and 4. Enhance and promote healthful outdoor respond to emerging trends. recreation through strategic partnerships with 5. Provide expanded parks and recreation technical the health care community. assistance to communities.

4 2014–2019 Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Plan T ourism and Economic 3. Cultivate support to protect wildlife and fish habitat Development through wildlife viewing, fishing and hunting. Our parks, trails and other recreational amenities 4. Develop and implement shale-gas best practices for create places where people want to live, work and recreation, and pursue new recreation opportunities. play. All across the state are examples of towns F unding and and businesses that are capitalizing on the benefits Financial Stability gained by making connections to recreational and At the heart of delivering outdoor recreation programs natural assets in a community. To help measure the and services is the ability to fund and sustain them for impact these recreational resources are having on our the benefit of all citizens. Recreation and conservation communities, recreation leaders need good economic initiatives have several long-standing state and data to communicate to key influencers. Given the federal funding sources, and new sources such as the wealth of outdoor assets and successful case studies, Marcellus Legacy Fund of 2012, have helped to meet the opportunities for programming and partnerships more demand. However, demand always outpaces continue to expand across Pennsylvania. the total funding available for projects, usually 2:1. Recommendations: The recommendations put forth in the plan will require innovative and more permanent funding solutions. 1. Organize and market outdoor recreation and heritage tourism assets and amenities more effectively. 1. Ensure the continued stability and permanence 2. Develop and implement a plan for communicating of existing state and federal conservation and the economic and community benefits of outdoor recreation funding sources. recreation, heritage tourism and land conservation. 2. Foster use of new revenue sources in support of 3. Increase access to business development resources recreation and conservation. and incentives for small tourism and outdoor 3. Prioritize the use of federal LWCF funds that come recreation businesses and entrepreneurs. to Pennsylvania over the next five years. 4. Use new and existing research to document the economic benefits of outdoor recreation, heritage tourism and land conservation. A s it has over the last 50 years, R esource Management this Outdoor Recreation Plan will and Stewardship be a guidance tool and resource for To participate in outdoor recreation, people need Pennsylvania’s recreation providers over places that are accessible, protected and safe. Millions the next five years. Outdoor recreation of acres of local, state and federal lands have been set affords us tremendous opportunities aside for the purpose of providing healthful recreation to develop a better society through to all Pennsylvanians, and many dollars are invested each year to ensure that these facilities meet that improved health and wellness, resource goal. But budget restraints and growing maintenance protection, economic development and backlogs challenge providers’ ability to meet citizen community enhancement. It will take a demand. Due in part to a centuries-old hunting and strong commitment by agency leaders, fishing heritage, Pennsylvanians believe strongly in their natural resources and taking care of what we have so elected and appointed officials, and these precious lands and waters can continue to be the recreation and parks professionals to setting for recreation for generations to come. ensure these priorities are met with

1. Conserve and protect Pennsylvania’s natural places. enthusiasm and success. 2. Maintain existing park, trail and recreation areas, and prioritize other infrastructure needs.

PaOutdoorRecPlan.com 5 INTRODUCTION

What outdoor recreation does for the mind, body and soul is immeasurable.

6 2014–2019 Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Plan Background • The importance of outdoor recreation to Pennsylvania is difficult to capture in a few words. From the pick-up basketball game with friends, to a solitary walk along a riverfront path with your dog, to a first-time camping outing under the stars with the family, outdoor recreation has the ability to touch all people with its far-reaching benefits. The abundance of local and state parks, state and national forests, trails, rivers and game lands opens the door of possibilities for adventure and enjoyment. What outdoor recreation does for the mind, body and soul is immeasurable.

ith a state as diverse as estate of Pennsylvania and who represent agencies Pennsylvania — in both people that can bring resources to the planning, funding and and landscape — providing implementation of the plan. Through quarterly meetings outdoor recreation services over the course of 18 months, the TAC helped to define is an exciting, albeit challeng- priorities; clarify goals and objectives; analyze research ing, endeavor. Community findings; and establish recommendations and action Wleaders, resource managers and park and recreation items contained in the plan’s priority areas. professionals look for guidance on how to best serve the needs of their citizens. For the past 50 years, the Plan Purpose Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan Pennsylvania’s outdoor recreation plan helps to guide has served that very purpose by offering ideas and strategy for local governments, state government and solutions on how to shape Pennsylvania’s outdoor other outdoor recreation providers. Priorities, recommendations and action items delineate a course of recreation future. action for five years and help to determine where best Every five years, states across the nation are required to make investments in recreation. to produce a new recreation plan to remain eligible to receive federal Land and Water Conservation funds. Established in 1965 to invest in our nation’s land, water and wildlife heritage, the Land and Water Conservation Fund has supported local parks and historic sites; conserved forests, rivers, lakes and wildlife habitat; and provided access to recreation, hunting and fishing across Pennsylvania for current and future generations. Since 1965, Pennsylvania has received almost $165 million from the LWCF, which has supported more than 1,500 local parks.

Pennsylvania has produced a total of eight outdoor recreation plans since 1966. Work on the 2014-19 plan began in 2012 and kicked off officially in 2013 with the formation of the 41-member Technical Advisory Committee, composed of state agencies and organizations with a vested interest in the outdoor recreation

PaOutdoorRecPlan.com 7 INTRODUCTION

For the purpose of this plan, Pennsylvania included Along with extensive engagement with the public, several passive outdoor activities such as scenic driving recreation experts and stakeholders, research findings and visiting historic sites along with the traditional active from several studies, plans and reports helped to outdoor activities like walking, bicycling, swimming, develop the 2009 plan recommendations and actions hunting and fishing. Indoor activities are not considered steps. Four surveys supporting the plan showed that in this plan. families were spending less time outdoors; more children were obese than ever before; and residents The 2014 Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation wanted access to close-to-home recreation, walkable Plan strives to capture the latest recreation wants and and bikeable communities, protected lands and waters, needs of our citizens. Thoughtful research and analysis and well-maintained park facilities. has led to a plan that will: The 2009 plan identified walking for pleasure or fitness • Continue to elevate the importance of statewide as the most popular outdoor recreation activity in outdoor recreation planning; Pennsylvania. Other popular activities included sightsee- • Identify high priority issues, needs and investments; ing and driving for pleasure, nature watching, swimming, • Review the 2009 plan and retain uncompleted picnicking and bicycling. top actions; • Develop collaborative relationships and partnerships; The 28 programmatic and five funding action steps • Quantify the public’s outdoor needs and values; were organized thematically under four major goals:

• Connect people to the outdoors; • Strengthen connections between outdoor • Satisfy National Park Service priorities and meet recreation, healthy lifestyles and economic benefits LWCF requirements. in communities;

This comprehensive plan requires a collaboration of • Reconnect people to the outdoors and develop a partners to accomplish these goals. Led primarily by stewardship ethic through outdoor recreation the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources opportunities and experiences; and other state agency partners, the plan’s success • Develop a statewide land and water trail network will be determined by the willingness of all partners, to facilitate recreation, transportation and healthy at both the local and state levels, to work together to lifestyles; tackle issues and embrace opportunities. • Enhance outdoor recreation through better state agency cooperation. Foundation for Success The 2014 plan brings in new ideas To prepare for the 2014 plan, DCNR lan P ion to complement the outstanding at first conducted a thorough review of re ec R or Pennsylvania Outdoors do the implementation status of the 2009 body of work put forth in the ut The Keystone for Healthy Living O e iv ns e plan. Implementation occurred on successful Pennsylvania Outdoors, eh pr om 200 e C The Keystone for Healthy Living, 9–2013 Statewid about half of a very ambitious plan Pennsylvania’s 2009-2013 Statewide with significant outdoor recreation Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation projects advanced and long-term Plan. As the result of a renewed priorities implemented. Some focus on implementation of projects and programs not formidable action steps for outdoor accomplished or in progress recreation, Pennsylvania’s 2009 plan have been evaluated for advance- was awarded the Best in the Nation in ment in this plan. Highlights of 2011 by the National Park Service and major implementation activities the National Association for Recreation achieved over the past five years www.paoutdoorrecplan.com Resource Planners. are found in Appendix A.

8 2014–2019 Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Plan T he people’s plan

More than 10,000 citizens and recreation providers had input into the plan.

T he intent of the outdoor recreation plan is to facilitate outdoor recreation experiences for Pennsylvanians. To do that, the plan must speak to citizens’ wants and needs. Understanding the recreational behaviors of the state’s nearly 13 million citizens, during a time when outdoor demands appear to be diversifying and when public finances are stretched thin, is essential if Pennsylvania is to effectively balance the outdoor recreational demands of its people with its responsibility to protect and restore its natural resources.

hile some people make demographics from two distinct audiences: those recreation in outdoor environs who use outdoor recreation services and those who a part of their daily life, others provide it. are unsure, unmotivated or disinterested in spending time C itizen Surveys outdoors. How does a plan Resident survey speak to our growing, aging and diverse population W For this new outdoor recreation plan to stay relevant who may be at varying stages of engagement? to the population it is intended to serve, researchers We started by asking people what they want. This plan at Penn State’s Department of Recreation, Park used three surveys to collect information, ideas and and Tourism Management studied and reported on

PaOutdoorRecPlan.com 9 T he people’s plan

Pennsylvanians’ outdoor recreation participation identified themselves as living in a suburban area patterns, attitudes and opinions through a compre- (39 percent), with only 17 percent residing in a city. hensive mail and Internet survey conducted from The survey respondents were overwhelmingly white (92 January 2014 through March 2014. percent), with 5 percent black and 2 percent Hispanic.1

So that comparisons could be drawn from previous Online survey outdoor recreation plans’ resident surveys, this survey Many Pennsylvanians are passionate about outdoor included a number of questions that had been used recreation. To capture the opinions of those vested in previous surveys. This survey research strived to in specific activities and recreation in general, a gauge residents’: condensed 13-question online survey was posted to the PA Outdoor Recreation Plan website from April • overall recreation participation 2014 to May 2014 to supplement the statistically valid • activity-specific participation resident survey (referenced above) and make general • recreation area and facility needs comparisons. This provided an opportunity for anyone • funding priorities to comment and have their opinions included in the • opinions about outdoor recreation and conservation plan’s development. More than 7,100 recreation enthu- • demographics siasts seized the chance to be heard. Respondents A random sample of 12,000 adult Pennsylvania residents represented all 67 counties, with 40 percent identifying was purchased from Survey Sampling Incorporated themselves as living in a rural area. The survey skewed with a targeted response rate of 20-25 percent for a heavily male (66 percent). Respondents were younger 95 percent confidence level. This sampling was identical than the resident survey, with 62 percent under the to the sampling frame of the 2009 resident survey. age of 55. The simplified survey duplicated a few

Participants were contacted through a letter explaining the purpose of the survey and directing them to the online survey website. After this initial contact, mail questionnaires and a series of post-card follow ups were sent to non-respondents to encourage their participation in the study. A total of 2,240 completed surveys were returned, representing a response rate of about 20 percent. As with the 2009 plan, resident survey data were weighted according to gender and region of residence to reflect the overall Pennsylvania population.

Respondents were more likely to be older, with an average age of 59 years. Most people

10 2014–2019 Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Plan questions from other surveys for comparison purposes The brief surveys, conducted in spring 2014, elicited a and provided two open-ended opportunities for expres- predominantly rural, small government response, with sion of needs. Those open forums elicited more than 55 percent representing communities with populations 8,500 individual comments, which were placed into less than 5,000. The responses mostly came from general categories and considered when developing appointed officials (47 percent) and elected officials plan recommendations.2 (40 percent), with park and recreation directors contributing 13 percent. Nearly all appointed and Provider Survey elected officials described their local government as With assistance from the PA Recreation and Park either a township or borough.3 Society, the PA State Association of Township Supervisors, the PA State Association of Boroughs, the Public Feedback PA Municipal League and the County Commissioners These more than 10,000 survey comments from the Association of Pennsylvania, 1,037 elected officials, public and recreation providers helped to shape the appointed officials and directors of parks and recreation recommendations of the plan in early 2014. Before the agencies responded to a survey designed specifically plan was finalized, the public again had the chance for them. They shared their opinions on the benefits of to weigh in on the future of outdoor recreation in recreation and parks services in their area; their priorities Pennsylvania. Draft plan recommendations and action for facility investment over the next five years; general steps were posted during October on the plan’s web- funding priorities; and challenges they face when site, paoutdoorrecplan.com. An online survey allowed providing parks and outdoor recreation opportunities. those interested to rank and provide feedback on the recommendations and actions steps; 579 people filled Two online surveys were developed for data collection. out all or portions of the survey. Citizens also had a One survey was designed to be taken by park and chance to provide in-person comments at three public recreation directors and included a number of specific meetings in Pittsburgh, Philadelphia and Harrisburg questions that relate to the role and realities of leading in mid-October 2014. The meetings drew 109 people, a park and recreation agency. The other survey was who were provided an overview and asked to rank and designed for both appointed and elected officials. provide feedback on the draft recommendations and Nearly all of the appointed officials who responded action steps for the plan. were township, city or borough managers/secretaries; the majority of elected officials were borough council 1 Outdoor Recreation in Pennsylvania Resident Survey, Appendix B members. A total of 134 park and recreation directors 2 Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Online Surveys, Appendix C completed the survey as well. 3 Pennsylvania Local Park and Recreation Provider Survey, Appendix D

PaOutdoorRecPlan.com 11 research and trends

Changes in ethnicity and age could lead to changes in recreational behaviors and landscape preferences.

12 2014–2019 Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Plan Our changing populations • Pennsylvania continues to get older and more ethnically diverse. These and other changes to the demographic fabric of Pennsylvania have and will have profound effects on people’s recreational behavior and the provision of recreational services and facilities. Variations in population growth and density could mean more or less visitor demand, crowd- ing, waiting and conflict. Changes in ethnicity and age could lead to changes in recreational behaviors and landscape preferences. Penn State researchers analyzed our changing demographics for their implications on recreation.4

Population Growth and Density Except for Forest and Centre counties, Pennsylvania’s etween 2000 and 2010, Pennsylvania’s population growth was predominantly centered in population grew 3.4 percent to 12.7 the east and southcentral counties. In the 2010 U.S. million people, slower than the United Census, Pike, Monroe, Franklin, Chester, York, Centre, States overall growth of 9.7 percent. Lehigh, Northampton and Adams were the fastest The state grew faster than Ohio, New growing counties. York and West Virginia and slower than BNew Jersey and Maryland, but was comparable to the The slowest growing counties were Cameron, Elk, 3.2 percent average growth rate of the U.S. Northeast Fayette, Beaver, Cambria, McKean, Greene, Armstrong, Region. Between 2005 and 2012, about 30 percent of Warren, Allegheny and Venango. All of these counties the Pennsylvania’s population growth was made up of lost population between 2000 and 2010. In fact, many people born outside of the United States. rural counties have lost population since the 1980s, and 29 Pennsylvania counties continued to lose population Fifty-two percent of the state’s population (6.6 million) between 2000 and 2010. Twenty-five of these counties resided in 10 counties: Philadelphia, Allegheny, were in the rural north and northwestern parts of the state. Montgomery, Bucks, Delaware, Lancaster, Chester, York, Berks and Westmoreland. Between 2010 and 2030, the state’s population is projected to grow 7.4 percent, slower than what is expected for the United States. Except for Centre County, and a few other outliers, the state’s population will continue to be centered in an area encompassing the eastern and southcentral counties.

Land Conversion Urbanization and land conversion will continue, especially in northeast and southcentral counties. A number of reports, including the 2003 Brookings Institution report, Back to Prosperity: A Competitive Agenda for Renewing Pennsylvania, have discussed the large amount of developed land associated with small population growth — defined as sprawl — in the state. While the 2008 economic recession drastically

PaOutdoorRecPlan.com 13 research and trends

slowed the number of new residential building permits to the 2010 U.S. Census, Pennsylvania was one of and housing starts, rural and urban housing units both the country’s oldest states, with 15.4 percent of the increased by 6 percent between 2000 and 2010. Similar population 65 and over. By the way of comparison, to other population trends, the greatest increase in Florida had 17.3 percent. At 27 percent, Pennsylvania housing units occurred in the eastern and southcentral also had one of the highest percentages of baby counties of the state, with slower growth in northern boomers, defined as those individuals born between and western counties. 1946 and 1964. In general, younger populations were found in the state’s southern and eastern counties, with Although ethnic population densities are projected older populations in the north and west. to grow in urban areas and population densities will remain high in existing cities, Pennsylvania’s population By 2030, people over 65 are projected to grow to will continue to shift to second class townships. This 23 percent of the state’s population. Until 2030, baby will be especially apparent in the residential growth of boomers in the 65-75 age range will dominate older northeastern and southcentral border counties adja- Pennsylvanians. A greater percentage of those over 65 cent to Maryland and New York. will be female. A smaller portion of these older people will retire in a traditional sense, and they are expected to Scattered growth could cause the update of land live longer and live more independent lives as they age. use planning and regulatory policy and an increase in referendum and bond issues and other tools used to preserve B y 2030, people over the age of 65 will be approaching open space, greenways, riparian areas one quarter of the state’s population. and other green infrastructure associated with recreation. It might lead to increased capacity Ethnic Populations and partnerships among municipalities, nonprofits Although our ethnic populations are still considerably and business in an attempt to plan and finance the lower than other states, Pennsylvania is becoming purchase and administration of open space and other increasingly diverse. Future population growth in recreational areas and provide cooperative park and Pennsylvania will largely be either foreign born or recreation services. U.S. citizens born outside of the country (e.g. Puerto Rico). Between 2000 and 2010, the state’s white Age population decreased 0.7 percent. During the same time In Pennsylvania and nationally, the percentage of period, the state’s ethnic population grew 33 percent. In people age 65 and over is increasing. According 2010, one of five Pennsylvanians identified themselves as belonging to an ethnic group. Between 2000 and 2010, the state’s African American population grew 12 percent, making it the largest ethnic group in the state, representing 10.4 percent.

Ethnic populations in rural areas grew at a much slower rate — 8 percent. When looking at youth, there was a growing population of children under five in all ethnic groups, compared to a 10 percent decline in the population growth of white children under five.

14 2014–2019 Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Plan Family structure will shift away from a traditional “nuclear family” to include structures such as single parents and couples without children. These changes could affect the type of family groups visiting facilities, the role women play in shaping recreational policy or family recreation decision- making, and the time households have for recreation.

Economic realities could cause disparities within and between The fastest growing ethnic group in the state is municipalities related to the type, quality and quantity Hispanic, which grew 83 percent to a total of 5.7 percent of recreation and where people can participate in of the state’s population. The largest Hispanic popula- high-quality recreation. This trend may marginalize tions were found in Philadelphia, Lehigh, Berks and some people from higher-quality recreation, lead to Lancaster counties. increased recreational conflict, cause reevaluation of entrance fee strategies, increase the need for state Between 2010 and 2030, the white population is grants and technical assistance and elevate the need projected to grow by less than one percent, while the for transportation and other services that can improve Hispanic population is projected to grow 184 percent, access for lower income people. Economic disparity to a total of 8.5 percent of the state’s population. in recreation may also have environmental and The African American population is projected to social justice realities. Recreation close to the home grow 26.6 percent and will remain the state’s largest may become even more important in some places, ethnic population. Even given these growth rates, no especially with any economic downturn. ethnic population is projected to become the majority population in Pennsylvania by 2030. Philadelphia and Pittsburgh Between 2000 and 2010, Pittsburgh’s population The increase in ethnic populations and population declined by 9 percent. During that time, the city lost densities could cause changes in recreational behavior, African American and older populations and gained facilities, services, strategies for outreach and interpreta- Hispanic and younger people. tion, and needs for grants and technical assistance.

Between 2000 and 2010, Philadelphia had a dramatic increase in the Hispanic population B etween 2010 and 2030, the Hispanic population and a decrease in older people. Between is projected to grow 184 percent, to a total 2000 and 2010, Philadelphia’s population of 8.5 percent of the state’s population. grew by 1 percent, the city’s first population increase since 1950. Family Structure and Income The average size of households in Pennsylvania Although Pittsburgh’s population decreased and continues to decrease, with fewer families with children Philadelphia’s population grew, three trends seem and fewer children in families. Between 2000 and 2010, apparent: 1) the number and density of the Hispanic the share of married couples raising children declined populations will continue to grow; 2) the cities’ popula- by 12 percent; conversely, single parent homes raising tions will become younger; and 3) these cities will children increased by 12 percent. continue to have large African American populations.

PaOutdoorRecPlan.com 15 research and trends

R esearch Findings– According to the data, youth like to do slightly different Citizen Surveys things, as to be expected. The top five outdoor recre- Both the random sample resident survey and the ation activities varied slightly for those under 18 years online survey of recreation enthusiasts provide insights of age: walking, swimming, playing on playgrounds, into what Pennsylvanians want to do, where they go picnicking and sledding/tubing. and what they value in their outdoor recreation lives. Respondents most frequently participate in various What people are doing forms of walking. Walking with a dog had the highest According to the Pennsylvania resident survey, the average number of times a respondent participated majority of respondents were actively engaged in in the past year — nearly 150 times. Walking on local outdoor recreation and participated in a wide variety streets/sidewalks is the second most frequent activity, of activities at both public and private park and with respondents participating an average of 107 times recreation areas. last year. Other frequent activities include: bird watching (81 times per year), jogging/running (71 times per Three-quarters of respondents said they participate year) and wildlife viewing (55 times per year). in outdoor recreation and over half (53 percent) do so one or more times per week. About one- M ore than half of Pennsylvanians participate in quarter of respondents indicated they never participate in outdoor recreation (Figure 1). outdoor recreation one or more times per week.

Walking, scenic driving, dog walking and bicycling are Consistent with national trend data, Pennsylvanians’ the most popular activities done on roads and trails. participation has significantly increased for bird watching Swimming and fishing are the most popular water-based over the last 10 years (17 percent in 2003 and 31 percent activities. Visiting historic sites, wildlife viewing, bird in 2014) and wildlife viewing (19 percent in 2003 and watching, visiting nature centers and night sky viewing 35 percent in 2014). Although hunting participation has all hold top spots on the popularity index. Taken as a whole, the top five outdoor recreation activities for increased steadily from 2003 (11 percent) to 2009 Pennsylvanians are walking, visiting historic sites, scenic (13 percent) to 2014 (15 percent), fishing has declined driving, picnicking and swimming (Figure 2). over that time period from 28 percent to 20 percent.

F igure 1: Outdoor Recreation Participation Nearly three-quarters of those who said they have participated in outdoor Two or more times per week 35% recreation estimate they spend an average of About once per week 18% 20 minutes per day being physically active in the About once or twice per month 13% outdoors. Pennsylvanians said providing more Several times during the year 7% long distance trails and pathways and protecting and Once or twice during the year 2% encouraging more natural settings at outdoor recreation Never participate in outdoor recreation 25% areas and facilities would be the most effective way to get them to achieve their Source: PA Resident Survey 2014 health and fitness goals.

16 2014–2019 Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Plan F igure 2: Top 10 Outdoor Recreation Activities

Activity Percent Participation in the Last Year

Walking (Streets, Sidewalks, Trails)

Visiting Historic Sites

Scenic Driving

Picnicking

Swimming

Wildlife Viewing

Visiting Nature Centers

Night Sky Viewing

Bird Watching

Lawn Games (Horseshoes, Bocce)

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% Source: PA Resident Survey 2014

Where people are going Local parks and recreation areas still remain B ird watching and wildlife watching both saw the top destination choice for Pennsylvanians, big gains in participation over the last 10 years. proving that close-to-home recreation is an important consideration for Pennsylvania’s outdoor most frequently at local parks, estimating they spent recreation plan. According to the Pennsylvania resident 28 days visiting those areas over the past year. State survey, 50 percent of visitor participation days occurred parks, forests and game lands as well as federal at local and county parks, trails or recreation areas. parks, trails and recreation areas also were visited Specifically, respondents reported that they recreate but presumably due to proximity, were not visited as frequently over the course of the year as Figure 3: Where Pennsylvanians Participate in Outdoor Recreation local and county parks (Figure 3).

What people want In the separate online survey, 59 percent Local/County 50% of respondents indicated they were satisfied or very satisfied with outdoor State 13% recreation amenities — trails, parks, playgrounds and playing fields — near Federal 5% where they live. The resident survey drilled down to specifics in order to get Private 19% a true assessment of the adequacy of existing recreation areas and facilities. Other 13% Participants were asked if certain facilities and areas were adequate, needed to be increased and/or needed Source: PA Resident Survey 2014 to be improved.

PaOutdoorRecPlan.com 17 research and trends

F igure 4: Top Recreation Area and Facility Needs (should be increased)

Rental Cabins

On-road Bike Lanes

Natural and Wild Areas

Dog Parks

Bicycle Paths/Rail Trails

Wildlife Viewing Areas

Environmental Education/Nature Centers

Natural Play Areas

Ice Skating Areas

Shooting Ranges

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% Source: PA Resident Survey 2014

Pennsylvanians seem to be most satisfied with the What people value number and condition of golf courses, ice-fishing Pennsylvanians place high value on the recreational areas, waterfowl hunting areas, downhill skiing/snow- and natural amenities in their community. Of 10 boarding areas and baseball/softball fields. However, choices of what best represents what they value some respondents believe we need more of certain most in a community, 90 percent of respondents to recreational facilities and areas, like on-road bike the online survey listed the trails, natural areas and lanes, natural/wild areas, rental cabins and dog parks waterways category as a choice. Three-quarters (Figure 4). On-road bike lanes were also identified as also checked 1) local parks and public spaces and the facility or area that is most in need of improvement, 2) surrounding countryside and farm land, as top with nearly 30 percent of those responding saying bike values in their community. By comparison, the next lanes should be improved. Additionally, on-road bike highest choice — residential neighborhoods — was lanes had the lowest adequacy rating of all facilities or selected by 35 percent of the respondents. areas. Other facilities or areas in need of improvement were playgrounds, picnic areas and lake/stream areas Pennsylvanians see both individual and societal (Figure 5). City respondents stated a greater need than benefits to park and outdoor recreation services suburban, town and rural respondents for developed in their local area. From the resident survey, half recreation areas such as various sports facilities, of the respondents thought outdoor recreation playgrounds and picnic areas. improves physical and mental health and fitness as well as reduces stress a “great deal.” But outdoor Connectivity through the use of trails was important to Pennsylvanians. The majority of residents said that they recreation services also were perceived to serve would be more likely to use a trail if it were within easy the greater societal good, such as making their walking distance from where they live. Additionally, community a more desirable place to live (51 residents agreed that it was important for greenways percent ranking a great deal), providing children a and trails to connect neighborhoods with schools, safe place to play (48 percent) and protecting the shopping areas, parks and open spaces. Finally, natural environment (43 percent). 63 percent of respondents agreed that Pennsylvania should do more to reconnect citizens to the riverfront.

18 2014–2019 Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Plan When people are trying to pick a spot to enjoy Those who answered the online survey believe that rec- outdoor recreation, they look for places that are clean reation services should be a core function of state and and safe, with at least 75 percent ranking those two local governments (70 percent). Respondents to the qualities as very important. Other important factors resident survey recognize the challenge of providing included the proximity of the area (53 percent very those services and agree that cooperation is important important), available information/signage about the to adequately providing outdoor recreation services to site (44 percent very important) and the cost to participate M ore than three-quarters of citizens believe parks, trails and (44 percent very important). open spaces are an essential part of our health care system. Perceptions and opinions How people perceive the recreation opportunities local communities. Over 60 percent of respondents close to their home is an important consideration to the resident survey agree that municipalities in for recreation planners and providers. Most people their area should join together to form a parks and (over 60 percent) believe that public recreation areas recreation department. near where they live are well maintained, although 45 percent of respondents believe that public outdoor Pennsylvanians clearly see a connection between recreation areas near where they live are in need of health and outdoor recreation. More than three- upgrades and modernization. The vast majority view quarters (77 percent) of respondents to the resident their facilities as safe. survey agreed or strongly agreed that parks, trails and open spaces are an essential part of our health According to the resident survey, more care system, making it the strongest response of 21 Pennsylvanians believe that there are enough public attitudinal questions in the survey. recreation areas close to where they live (40 percent) than those who do not (29 percent). Only one-fifth of Nearly 83 percent of respondents to the resident the recreation enthusiasts who answered the online survey said they have never encountered natural gas survey believe they do not have easy access to activity when participating in outdoor recreation in outdoor recreation facilities. Pennsylvania. In areas of the state where drilling is

F igure 5: Top Recreation Area and Facility Needs (should be improved)

On-road Bike Lanes

Playgrounds

Picnic Areas

Lake/Stream Swimming Areas

Bicycle Paths/Rail Trails

Walking Fitness Paths

Scenic Drives/Byways

Outdoor Pools

Heritage Historic Areas

Natural and Wild Areas

0%% 5 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 35% Source: PA Resident Survey 2014

PaOutdoorRecPlan.com 19 research and trends

Figure 6: Percentage of Marcellus Shale-Related Gas Activity Encounters and Experience/Behavior Change by Region

60%

50%

40%

30%

20%

10%

0% North West South West North South North East South East Pittsburgh Philadelphia Central Central

% Yes – Encounter % Yes – Experience/Behavior Change Source: PA Resident Survey 2014

more prevalent, like in the northcentral region, that Funding percentage is more evenly split between those who A majority of respondents in the resident survey believe have encountered and those who have not. Across the the state should increase its permanent source of commonwealth, a small percentage of respondents — funding for park and recreation opportunities based on general tax revenues. Additionally, a majority believe about 12 percent — indicate their outdoor recreation their municipality should have a permanent source of behavior has changed due to Marcellus shale-related funding for park and recreation opportunities derived activity, but that number jumps to 28 percent for from general tax revenues. respondents from regions with heavy drilling (Figure 6). For those who said their experience was

impacted by gas-related activity, the main complaint M aintaining existing park and recreation areas related to a disturbance or disruption of their was identified as the highest funding priority. desired outdoor recreation behaviors. Others cited environmental and aesthetic degradation as a negative Overall, maintaining existing facilities was highlighted consequence of drilling-related activity. as a main priority for respondents. To illustrate, more than half of respondents agreed that maintaining the public recreation areas we now have is more important than adding new outdoor recreation facilities in Pennsylvania.

Maintaining existing park and recreation areas was identified by 32 percent of respondents as the top overall funding priority, a 10 percent jump from the 2009 survey. The other top priorities were all conservation related: protecting wildlife and fish habitat (17 percent),

20 2014–2019 Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Plan acquiring and protecting open space (14 percent) and Citizen survey conclusions restoring damaged rivers and streams (11 percent). Both the resident survey and the online survey give These priorities, and their order of importance, were us insight into the opinions and priority outdoor the same in 2014 as they were in 2009, reflecting their recreation needs of citizens. Pennsylvanians place a continued importance to Pennsylvanians (Figure 7). high value on the recreational and natural amenities in their communities. We know from both surveys that maintaining facilities, protecting natural resources and properly funding outdoor recreation opportunities are important to Pennsylvanians. Pennsylvanians like to walk and prefer close-to-home recreation areas that are safe and clean. Citizens see a strong connection between recreating outdoors and their physical and mental health and well-being. The vast majority of Pennsylvanians believe that outdoor recreation should be an important component of our health care system. Appendices B and C provide complete results and analysis of the surveys.

F igure 7: Pennsylvanian’s Highest Funding Priorities 2014/2009

% Highest Funding Priority 2014 % Highest Funding Priority 2009

A. Acquire and protect open space (as undeveloped, conserved land)

B. Acquire additional land and water areas for developed recreation

C. Maintain existing park and recreation areas

D. Provide environmental and conservation programs

E. Provide recreation programs at parks and recreation areas

F. Protect wildlife and fish habitat

G. Build more greenways/trails

H. Restore damaged rivers and streams

I. Build pedestrian and cycling paths between places of work, parks, schools and shopping areas 0%% 5 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 35% Source: PA Resident Survey 2014

PaOutdoorRecPlan.com 21 research and trends

R esearch findings– Provider Survey The responses of more than 1,000 providers of local park and recreation services add insight into the perceived benefits provided by these services, future facility investment priorities, outdoor recreation and conservation funding strategies and challenges faced by their local government or agency. Appendix D provides complete results and analysis of the provider survey.

Capacity The majority of appointed and elected providers work for local governments that own a small number of parks. example, township managers were less likely than other Slightly more than half of appointed and elected officials providers to perceive that their local government’s park said that they have a park and recreation board that and recreation services provided a range of benefits. was established by their local government, with three- Delving deeper, it is clear that elected officials were quarters stating that the board was either somewhat more likely than appointed officials to perceive that effective or extremely effective in promoting, planning park and recreation services provided a multitude of and serving the park and recreation needs benefits to their local areas. Not surprisingly, park and of their local residents. recreation directors and respondents from the resident Park and recreation directors reported that their average survey reported the highest levels of park and recreation number of full-time recreation staff was 6.7 (with a range benefits overall. from zero to 63) and a median of four. The average number of part time/seasonal staff was 40.8 (with a The extent to which local government agencies had range from zero to 430) and a median of 20. When the capacity to provide park and recreation services reading these statistics, the median is most relevant impacted their perception of the benefits that their because it is not skewed by the presence of outliers. services provide to their local areas. Those who served larger populations and who had larger budgets and A majority of park and recreation directors said that staffing were more likely to perceive that park and tax-supported operational and capital expenses have recreation services provided benefits to the community. remained the same over the last three years (65 percent and 53 percent, respectively). Those who did indicate changes were more likely R ecreation providers believe providing children to cite declines in tax support for operational with a safe place to play is the most important (24 percent) and capital (29 percent) expenses benefit of parks and recreation services. rather than increases.

Benefits Facility Investment Priorities When asked to indicate the extent that their local Playgrounds, neighborhood parks, team sport facilities, government delivered a list of 14 potential park and community or regional parks and community or regional recreation benefits, the most important benefits cited trails were the providers’ selections as the highest priority among all providers were that they provide children with for future investment (Figure 8). Collectively, playgrounds a safe place to play, make communities a more desirable were the highest priority facility among all providers, with place to live, provide opportunities for social interaction, neighborhood parks ranking second, but neighborhood and enhance a sense of community. parks were clearly more important to appointed and elected officials than to park and recreation directors. There were variations in benefit perceptions across Elected officials prioritized future facility investments at certain types of park and recreation providers. For similar or higher rates than appointed officials.

22 2014–2019 Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Plan Funding Priorities 40 percent of providers ranked trails and greenways as Maintaining existing park and recreation areas was an important or extremely important funding priority. the most important funding priority across all Challenges Faced provider groups, which mirrors the response given by Providers were asked to indicate the extent that various Pennsylvania’s citizens. Eighty-five percent of provider partnership/staffing, advocacy, fiscal and maintenance respondents believe maintenance is important or issues were a challenge for their local government. They extremely important, and 64 percent said it was their were also asked whether responding to certain societal top funding priority. Though significantly less important trends posed challenges for their organization. than maintenance, other important funding priorities included providing recreation programs at parks and Three of the four top challenges (out of 31) related to recreation areas (58 percent), building more greenways funding. Seventy-eight percent of providers believed that and trails (40 percent) and providing environmental developing alternative, non-traditional revenue sources and conservation programs (33 percent) (Figure 9). was a significant or major challenge. This was identified as the single most significant challenge of all 31 issues T hree of the top four challenges for presented. Creating new park and recreation facilities, providers (out of 31) related to funding. insufficient funds to rehabilitate existing facilities and insufficient funds for land acquisition, collectively posed the other most significant challenges across the various When comparing funding priorities across provider provider groups. groups, park and recreation directors generally placed a higher importance on various outdoor recreation and Providers also felt emerging trends, such as dog conservation funding priorities than appointed and parks, paddleboarding and pickleball, were a challenge, elected officials. Specifically, park and recreation direc- but less so than funding and maintenance and tors identified providing recreation programs at parks management issues. and recreation areas as a high outdoor funding priority more so than others, while township providers — both Park and recreation directors were more likely than the appointed and elected — identified acquiring and pro- other providers to indicate “addressing the lack of youth tecting open space as a high funding priority. Overall, engagement in outdoor recreation” as a challenge.

Boroughs were more likely F igure 8: Top 5 Future Facility Investment Priorities* than other providers to report “lack of acreage or suitable

Playgrounds sites for new parks and recreation facilities,” “respond- Neighborhood Parks ing to emerging or new types of outdoor recreation Team Sports Facilities activities” and “promoting green infrastructure at parks” Community or Regional Parks as challenging.

Community or Regional Conclusions Trail Systems This large and diverse sample 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% provided insights that will prove to be helpful when plan- *Respondents were asked to rate the level of priority their agency/local government placed on investing in specific facilities over the next five years (15 total facilities). ning for the future of outdoor

Source: PA Provider Survey 2014 recreation in Pennsylvania over the next five years.

PaOutdoorRecPlan.com 23 research and trends

F igure 9: Top 6 Outdoor Recreation and Conservation Funding Strategies

% Important or Extremely Important #1 Funding Priority

Maintain existing park and recreation areas

Provide recreation programs at parks and recreation areas

Build more greenways/trails

Build pedestrian and cycling paths between places of work, parks, schools, shopping areas

Acquire and protect open space (as undeveloped, conserved land)

Provide environmental/conservation programs

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% Source: PA Provider Survey 2014

Child/youth, community and social benefits were perceived as the top benefits delivered to local communities through park and recreation services. These top benefits illustrate the widely-held opinion among providers that parks and recreation deliver benefits that are advantageous to local communities, especially with positive youth development. The high priority providers placed on playgrounds as a top facility investment need The results of the resident survey indicate citizens were further substantiates the focus respondents had on much more likely than local park and recreation providers providing recreational opportunities for young people. to rate a number of conservation-related funding priorities higher, such as protecting fish and wildlife habitat and restoring damaged rivers, M ore than three-quarters of all respondents said their indicating a possible disconnect in what most significant challenge is developing alternative/ citizens and providers think is important. non-traditional revenue sources for parks and recreation. The biggest challenge that providers face is The significant importance that providers placed on developing alternative/non-traditional revenue sources maintaining existing park and recreation areas was for parks and recreation. With lower levels of funding a major finding of this study. In the face of shrinking and rising costs to provide their services, recreation budgets and rising maintenance backlogs, this data providers must seek out new partners and opportunities indicates that providers would like to see future funding to generate revenues to continue offering quality facilities opportunities directed towards maintaining the park and services. Finally, creating new park and recreation and recreation areas that already exist to ensure facili- facilities and expanding programming will continue to ties are clean, safe and ready to use. be challenges into the foreseeable future.

24 2014–2019 Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Plan N ational outdoor Trends: As it is in Pennsylvania, walking is the nation’s most PA compared to USA popular outdoor activity, with 85 percent of the Two major national surveys provide insight into outdoor American population participating. Nationally, the fastest recreation participation trends within the United growing outdoor recreation activities include adventure States. Since 1998, the Outdoor Foundation has racing (alternative endurance events such as mud runs), published an annual outdoor recreation participation growing by 211 percent over the past five years, as well report that helps the outdoor industry, public agencies as triathlons (both non-traditional and traditional), which and community organizations better understand the increased 199 percent and 174 percent respectively trends in outdoor recreation participation. This survey over the past five is a sample of individuals who participate in outdoor years.5 According W alking is the most popular recreation, not a general population sample like the to NSRE trend outdoor activity in both PA Pennsylvania resident survey. Another survey, the data, nature-based and the nation. National Survey on Recreation and the Environment, activities are also is led by researchers at the USDA Forest Service. popular: viewing birds (23 percent), other wildlife besides This surveillance survey began in 1960 and uses phone birds (25 percent), wildflowers/trees (29 percent), natural interviews with a general population of Americans scenery (18 percent) and fish (21 percent).6 to understand their outdoor recreation participation and behaviors. First-time participants are flocking to newer forms of outdoor recreation like stand-up paddleboarding, with Both national data sources indicate that the number of 56 percent of users identified as first-time participants. outdoor recreation participants and the number of total Boardsailing, windsurfing and triathlons also experi- outdoor outings have increased in recent years, but enced a significant influx of first-time participants. By much of this increase is due to population growth. contrast, the traditional activities of fishing and hiking experienced the lowest percentages of users identified as first-time participants, both at 6 percent.5

The Outdoor Foundation’s Pennsylvania-specific data show that the top five outdoor recreation activities remained consistent over the last four years: running/ jogging, fishing, biking, hiking and camping. These differ from the Pennsylvania survey due to category choices available to the survey respondents. The categories with the highest increase in participation over the last four years are: cross-country skiing, telemarking, snowshoe- ing, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. Those activities with the biggest decrease in participation rates were scuba diving, non-traditional triathlons, windsurfing, BMX bicycling and surfing.

When comparing Pennsylvania participation rates to a national average, 16 recreational activities in Pennsylvania exceeded the average. These activities include rifle hunting, snowboarding, kayaking and all types of skiing (downhill, cross-country, telemarking and freestyle).

PaOutdoorRecPlan.com 25 research and trends

The NSRE national data on youth participation is Caucasians participated in outdoor recreation more encouraging. Approximately 64 percent of youth ages than Hispanics, African Americans and Asian/Pacific 6 to 19 reported spending two or more hours out- Islanders. Most notably, 64 percent of Caucasians doors on a typical weekday. This percentage jumps ages 13 to 17 participated in outdoor recreation, to over 75 percent on weekend days. Participation by while only 46 percent of African Americans, adolescent boys ages 13 to 17 rose three percentage 53 percent of Hispanics, and 58 percent of Asian/ points in the past two years, whereas adolescent Pacific Islanders of the same age group participated. girls ages 13 to 17 declined four percentage points in the last two years. Perceived constraints to outdoor Visitation to public lands has varied over the past recreation help explain why youth did not participate 10 years, dependent on the type of public land in outdoor recreation activities. From the overall (national parks, national forests, national recreation sample of respondents ages 6 and up, not being areas, state parks, etc.). National parks visitation has interested (37 percent), not having time (26 percent), remained relatively stable; national forests visitation and not having the skills/abilities (21 percent) were the has decreased; and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service top three reasons why respondents did not participate facility visitation has steadily increased. Nationally, in outdoor recreation activities.6 state park visitation had increased from 1992 to 2000, declined until 2005, increased through 2008, and dipped again in 2009. In Pennsylvania, state Pennsylvania exceeds the national average park visitation fluctuated only slightly over the same in 16 recreational activities including rifle time period, with moderate increases and decreases hunting, kayaking and all types of skiing. in attendance. Over the past 10 years, the average attendance has hovered around 36.5 million visits.

A noticeable lack of diversity in outdoor recreation In that time period, the highest level of visitation participants is a reason for concern moving forward. occurred in 2009 with around 38.7 million visits Consistent with previous reports, outdoor participa- and the lowest occurred in 2008 with 34.1 million tion was highest among Caucasians and lowest visits. In 2013, Pennsylvania State Parks received among African Americans. Across all age groups, 37.5 million visits.4

26 2014–2019 Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Plan T echnology five hours of computer time was spent on a mobile We live in a world highly device. The use of digital technology clearly has become influenced by technology, so it a primary leisure time activity for many Americans. is only logical that recreation and The digital technology era is only beginning; it is the parks professionals consider its job of outdoor recreation providers to adapt to this implications in outdoor recreation. new reality. Technology could potentially be a Technology has always influenced powerful tool to connect people to outdoor recreation. Advances nature and outdoor recreation. At in equipment and clothing their fingertips, citizens now have have made participation more instant access to recreation informa- comfortable, safe, enjoyable tion and destinations. Website usage and even possible. Lightweight backpacking for outdoor venues and activities has gear, composite materials, technical fabrics and grown exponentially as more people use motorized recreational vehicles are just a few the Internet as their primary source for examples of how technology has perpetually researching and planning trips. shaped the outdoor recreation experience. In the Pennsylvania resident survey, However, while equipment advances still the Internet was identified by the highest continue to improve experiences and access, the percentage of respondents as their most biggest advances in recent years have come from used information source. Notably, however, more digital technology. technologically focused information sources like Digital technology refers to the use of cellphones, social media, email/text messages and mobile/smart computers, tablets, television, the Internet, GPS and phone apps were the three least important information other similar forms of media. On one hand, digital sources indicated by the overall respondents. Those technology is seen as a way to connect people respondents under 49 years of age were more likely to outdoor recreation activities and destinations. than older respondents to say that these technological Conversely, it is often seen as a detractor to exercising information sources were important and were also outdoors or connecting with nature. more likely to use them with much more frequency. In a recent survey, the Outdoor People are adapting to and changing with technology, and Foundation attempted to better under- the parks and recreation industry must move with them. stand the role of technology within outdoor recreation from the perspective Digital technology is clearly already part of life in of young people. The Outdoor Foundation study, titled the United States. An ongoing survey conducted by Technology + Social Media: an Outdoor Nation Special the Pew Research Internet Project reveals that 91 Report, uncovered both the positive and negative percent of American adults 18+ years of age have a effects high tech tools have on the outdoor experience. cell phone, 55 percent have a smartphone, and 42 Positive effects include: the use of iPods and MP3 percent have a tablet computer. These three devices players to listen to music while running, the use of GPS have been on a general increase since the survey was for exploring new areas while remaining safer in the begun in 2006.7 outdoors, and access to information like maps while

Research firm eMarketer has assembled data on using mobile phones. The study goes on to suggest the average time spent per day with media by U.S. ideas for incorporating technology into the outdoor adults 18+ years of age. Their findings indicate that recreation experience. These ideas include geocach- U.S. adults spend more than five hours on computer/ ing, Twitter/Facebook groups, text message scavenger mobile devices and four hours with TV.8 Half of the hunts and others.9

PaOutdoorRecPlan.com 27 research and trends

Technology has positive practical applications to outdoor recreation participation as well. For example, there are great applications for the use of technology in communicating environmental subjects. The use of podcast technology has been shown as a cost-effective way to communicate environmental education and interpretive concepts to park visitors.10 Guided cell phone tours are now commonplace at many national park units. Site-specific tablet and mobile apps also have been developed to provide information about natural and cultural resources at a specific area or site, such as the South Mountain Partnership app, which provides details about the conservation landscape in southcentral Pennsylvania. In this light, digital technology can be seen as a complement to the outdoor recreation experience.

The use of technology within outdoor recreation is not without potential negative impacts. The Outdoor Foundation special report identified some of these negative effects, including an overreliance and over absorption with GPS devices; the fact that iPods and MP3s shut out natural sounds; and mobile phones “take away from the feeling 9 of being out in nature, cut off from everything…”. To take full advantage of the benefits of technology, These findings imply that the restorative benefits of parks and recreation providers must gain a better nature connection that have long been inherent within understanding of the increasing digitization of our outdoor recreation participation are being whittled society. In the Pennsylvania resident survey, 58 percent away by the excessive use of digital technology. of respondents agreed or strongly agreed that “local park and recreation services should do more to connect with Pennsylvanians through online content and T he Internet is the most used source when social media.” People are adapting to and changing searching for outdoor recreation information. with technology, and the parks and recreation industry must move with them.

Also noted in the literature is that virtual reality — the This requires flexibility on the part of park and recre- use of computer-generated 3D environments — could ation providers to use technology to create additional pose a threat to outdoor recreation and tourism. Virtual opportunities for connection to the outdoors as well reality could be viewed as a substitute for the actual as using it to foster a stewardship ethic. Governmental recreation or tourism experience. The seemingly limit- agencies often are less nimble at adapting to emerging less experience of virtual reality tourism could prove to trends, so an opportunity exists for non-governmental be a serious competitor to outdoor recreation participa- agencies and park and forest “friends groups” to part- tion. This competition has the potential to result in a ner with park and recreation providers to offer digital decline in actual outdoor recreation participation, technology solutions that can better connect recreation along with the loss of support for conserving the participants to outdoor settings through online content environments in which outdoor recreation occurs.11 and conversations.12

28 2014–2019 Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Plan R esearch and Trends • Even though they believe that maintenance comes Conclusions before building new facilities, citizens would like to Several trends and research findings influenced the see more on-road bike lanes, playgrounds, picnic development of this recreation plan. Some noted areas, rental cabins, natural and wild areas and dog findings include: parks. Providers think the priorities should be on playgrounds, neighborhood and regional parks, team • Pennsylvania’s population is projected to sport facilities and trails. substantially grow older and increase its ethnic • Pennsylvanians feel strongly about protecting their proportions, particularly in the eastern and natural resources and support conservation-related southcentral parts of the state. funding priorities, such as acquiring and protecting • As in the past, Pennsylvanians still like to walk, visit open space, protecting wildlife and fish habitat and historic sites, take scenic drives, picnic and swim. restoring damaged rivers and streams. Increasingly, they also like to kayak, watch wildlife • Citizens value trails and would become more active and participate in winter sports. if there were more trails closer to where they • People spend most of their outdoor recreation live. They believe communities should make trail time in their local parks and recreation areas. They connections between neighborhoods, parks, schools choose the spots that are safe, close by, well- and shopping areas. maintained and clean. • Fiscal and funding issues are the biggest challenges • Respondents perceived park and recreation services faced by local park and recreation providers. to provide both important personal health and • Unconventional gas drilling (i.e. Marcellus Shale) societal benefits. is having a slight impact on people’s recreational • Pennsylvanians strongly believe that parks, trails choices, but most Pennsylvanians have yet to come in and open space are an essential component of our contact with the activity while recreating. health care system, but the providers of recreation • Technology is influencing leisure activity and recre- services don’t make as strong of a connection. ational choices, both positively and negatively. Parks • Maintenance of existing park and recreation facilities and recreation areas can use technology to influence is clearly the most important funding priority for decisions and enhance outdoor experiences.

outdoor recreation in Pennsylvania, for both citizens 4 Trends and Demographic Analysis, Appendix E and providers. 5 Outdoor Foundation (2013). 2013 outdoor participation report. Retrieved from: http://www.outdoorfoundation.org/pdf/ResearchPar- ticipation2013.pdf. The Outdoor Industry Association: Boulder, CO. 6 Cordell, K. (2012). Outdoor recreation trends and futures: A technical document supporting the Forest Service 2010 RPA assessment. USFS Southern Research Station: Asheville, NC. 7 Pew Research Center (2014). Mobile technology factsheet. Wash- ington D.C. Retrieved from: http://www.pewinternet.org/fact-sheets/ mobile-technology-fact-sheet/ 8 eMarketer (2013). Digital set to surpass TV in time spent with US media. New York, NY. Retrieved from: http://www.emarketer.com/ Article/Digital-Set-Surpass-TV-Time-Spent-with-US-Media/1010096 9 Outdoor Foundation (2012). Outdoor nation special report: Technol- ogy and social media. Retrieved from: http://www.outdoorfoundation.org/pdf/Research. OutdoorNation.Technology.pdf. The Outdoor Industry Association: Boulder, CO. 10 Henker, K. B. & Brown, G. (2011). As good as the real thing? A com- parative study of interpretive podcasts and traditional ranger talks. Journal of Interpretation Research. 16(1), 7-23. 11 Guttentag, D. A. (2010). Virtual reality: Applications and implications for tourism. Tourism Management, 31(5), 637-651. 12 Mowen & Havitz, (In Press). Marketing public leisure services - Key concepts, approaches, and emerging trends. In G. Walker, D. Scott, M. Stodolska (Eds.), Leisure matters: The state and future of leisure studies. Venture Publishing Inc.

PaOutdoorRecPlan.com 29 p riority Areas H ealth and Wellness L ocal Parks and Recreation

T ourism and Economic Development

Resource Management and Stewardship

F unding and Financial Sustainability

30 2014–2019 Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Plan Priority • Health and wellness

promoting healthy living through outdoor connections

KEY THEMES C hallenges O PPORtunities

• Alternative transportation • An obesity and chronic • Active aging population improvements diseases crisis • Wellness focus in the • Obesity reduction • Connecting health and provision of health care • School-based recreation recreation providers • Opportunities for • Senior recreation • Disconnect between coordination people and outdoors • Walkable/bikeable • Built environment’s communities • Changing demographics influence on community health • Connections to the • The built environment outdoors/stewardship

uman health and well-being are acterized by impressive gains in park and outdoor fundamental elements of park and recreation areas and programs. However, the late outdoor recreation services. The 20th century witnessed a retrenchment of these invest- historic roots of the park and outdoor ments and saw the field straying away from its role recreation movements of the late in addressing the core social problems of the nation. 19th century can be traced back to the The recent recession had significant impacts on park pressing health concerns facing the nation at that time. H capital budgets and staffing and may have lowered Creating and expanding park and outdoor recreation the recreation field’s capacity to sustain services.13 opportunities were viewed as a way to rejuvenate a rapidly industrialized workforce, address youth The nation’s increasing physical and mental health development concerns and improve overall sanitation concerns have now brought that core mission and health in America’s cities. back into focus. For the first time in the history of While many of those original health concerns are still Pennsylvania’s outdoor recreation plans, the 2009 relevant today, technological and societal changes plan made health a central theme, which is continued have brought about a new set of health challenges that and elevated in this 2014 plan. Park and outdoor confront modern society. Americans are less physically recreation services are once again being recognized active, more overweight and are undergoing stress and as a central asset in combating societal health care anxiety effects as a result of a society that is constantly issues like obesity, heart disease, diabetes and “plugged in” and disconnected from nature. mental health.

Park and recreation services, too, have evolved since How healthy we are has a direct correlation with how the early movement. The mid-20th century was char- our communities are built and function. Our built

PaOutdoorRecPlan.com 31 p riority • Health and Wellness

environment defines how we live. Our human-made • The aesthetics, maintenance and condition of parks spaces can either help or hinder our access to healthier and park features contribute to their use and the lifestyles. Studies show that when citizens are provided physical activity that occurs in these settings. opportunities for active transportation and recreation • Organized programming and supervision at parks and and are provided connections to green spaces, they are outdoor recreation areas is associated with increased healthier and more active. visitation levels and with the physical activity that occurs in these spaces, particularly among youth. A range of professions and stakeholders in fields from public health to transportation and community planning • Spending time in parks, natural areas and open space are examining the role of park and outdoor services in is associated with favorable physiological and mental shaping a range of health outcomes. Scientific research health outcomes.4 links health and wellness to those who participate in Because our built environment influences our lifestyles, outdoor recreation. Research findings include: addressing public health challenges has become the responsibility of many — from planners, to recreation • Living closer to a park or outdoor recreation area professionals, to transportation decision makers, is associated with higher levels of use and physical to builders. activity and lower levels of Body Mass Index (BMI).

• The more parks that exist within a community, the more likely residents are Park and outdoor recreation services are to be physically active and the less likely once again being recognized as a central asset in they are to be overweight. combating societal health care issues. • Park and recreation areas with specific features and a wider range of features are more likely to attract visitors and more likely to be The Urban Land Institute’s Building Healthy Places associated with increased physical activity. Initiative is working with these interest groups to raise awareness of the connections between health and the built environment. ULI defines a healthy place within a built environment as one that is designed, built and programmed to support the physical, mental and social well-being of the people who live, work, learn and visit there. Healthy places offer healthy and affordable housing options, and a variety of safe, comfortable and convenient transportation choices; provide access to healthy foods, the natural environment and other amenities that allow people to reach their full potential; are designed thoughtfully, with an eye to making the healthy choice the easy choice, and they are built using health- promoting materials; and address unique community issues with innovative and sustainable solutions.14

The potential to re-energize park and outdoor recreation services and improve their contribution to human health is considerable, but the challenges are also considerable. Working in cooperation with allied partners like hospitals, community health foundations and insurers, park and outdoor recreation providers should develop coordinated and measurable health improvement

32 2014–2019 Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Plan Although very recent statistics show a decline in the childhood obesity rate, the number of overweight and obese citizens remains alarming. In Pennsylvania, the percentage of adults meeting criteria as overweight or obese has increased steadily over the past decade. In 2011, 65 percent of Pennsylvania adults met criteria as overweight or obese, compared with 60 percent in 2001.

Particularly disturbing is the percentage of overweight children. Children today for the first time may not have a lifespan longer than their parents. For children in grades K to 6, 36 percent strategies and action steps. Efforts should strive to were overweight or obese in 2011, as well as 34 percent enhance the public’s access or proximity to park and of children in grades 7 to 12 (Figure 10). outdoor recreation services; maintain or improve the quality and condition of low-cost outdoor recreation Obese and overweight people are at increased risk of facilities; increase the number of organized programs developing heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes and and active features within existing park settings; and certain types of cancer. Overweight and obese children enlist partners to share in the provision and promotion are also at higher risk for health problems, including of healthy outdoor recreation activities. high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, asthma, joint problems, gallstones and some forms of • Challenge cancer. They are also at higher risk of developing these Chronic diseases and conditions have problems in adulthood. become epidemic.

Health issues like obesity, heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, stress and mental illnesses are common and costly. As a nation, 75 percent of our health care spending is on people with chronic diseases.

Because these conditions and diseases are largely preventable, changing certain risk behaviors like tobacco use, poor nutrition and the lack of physical exercise can develop a healthier society.

Overall, less than half (49 percent) of Pennsylvania F igure 10: Percent of School Students who adults participate in the 150 minutes of physical activity are Overweight/Obese 2008-11 each week recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Although lower than the U.S. Statewide Average = 33.4% with BMI > 85th percentile figure of 52 percent, the difference between U.S. and At or below statewide average Pennsylvania rates by age is not statistically significant. Above statewide average

Source: Center for Rural PA

PaOutdoorRecPlan.com 33 p riority • Health and Wellness

Not only are obesity and overweight conditions The health care community’s primary focus has been creating a crisis of health, but they also are having a on treatment, not prevention. Health care providers — financial impact. Medical charges for those who are particularly insurance companies — are beginning to obese are $1,429 higher per year than their normal recognize the cost savings possible through prevention strategies such as healthy outdoor recreation and are weight counterparts. directly supporting programs and initiatives (see case Correcting chronic conditions is a slow and complex studies) that promote these opportunities. issue that can take decades. Although not a single Recreation providers also may not always make the magic bullet, increased recreational activity can be a connection between the resources they maintain and the vital component to reversing these alarming trends. benefits recreating in the outdoors have to the people in their communities. When surveyed, recreation providers • Challenge did not perceive health as important as other community- Connecting health and recreation providers wide benefits, not even ranking in the top five of benefit is still a challenge. choices. When figuring out where priority investments should be made, “active” recreation choices like building Although coordinated linkages between the health more pedestrian and cycling paths between places of care community and outdoor recreation providers are work, parks, schools and shopping areas ranked much growing, much work needs to be done to return to the lower than maintaining existing infrastructure. days when outdoor recreation was intrinsically linked to our health and well-being. M ore than 75 percent of Pennsylvanians believe that parks, trails and open space are an essential While current evidence suggests a correlation component of our health care system. between time spent outdoors and health, there is a need to develop additional evidence Pennsylvania’s citizens, on the other hand, do make and data on the broad health impacts of outdoor the direct correlation between outdoor recreation recreation services and how these impacts translate and their health. More than three-quarters agreed or to economic savings in the health sector. strongly agreed that “parks, trails and open space are

34 2014–2019 Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Plan an essential component of our health care system.” This was the highest rated item from the attitudinal questions asked in the resident survey. Of the benefits of outdoor recreation services rated by residents, improving physical health and fitness and reducing stress and improving mental health were among the top three.

Individuals seem to recognize that outdoor recreation is beneficial to their physical and mental well-being, and they value their ability to access active outdoor recreation resources. Health care providers, as they begin to recognize this, may be the link that is needed between individuals who enjoy the benefits of outdoor activity and the recreation providers who ensure its accessibility in our communities. advocate for their protection. The next generation of environmental stewards must build a young appre- Recognizing this connection is one thing; evaluating ciation for our flora and fauna or our natural world will the worth of park and outdoor recreation initiatives to greatly suffer. enhance health is another matter entirely. Efforts must be undertaken to determine what outdoor recreation Park and recreation directors across the state recognize strategies and action steps are most effective in helping this and are making strides to address it. Of all recreation prevent chronic diseases. providers, recreation and park directors were most likely to cite “addressing the lack of youth engagement in • Challenge outdoor recreation” as a significant or major challenge. There is still a growing disconnect between people and the natural environment. About 77 percent of recreation directors indicated that their organization offered outdoor programs that connect The 2009 outdoor recreation plan addressed this children with nature. They also place the highest value on challenge head on. Although a few lasting programs those facilities, like playgrounds, that are most likely to have developed across the state as the result of that attract children and families. plan’s recommendations, many efforts struggled due to cutbacks in schools and budgets. The trends in our As expected, having a park close by is likely to help society that are helping to cause this disconnect are make outdoor connections, particularly when the space continuing: increased digital presence in our lives, less is “green,” with trees and natural play areas. Park unstructured play time for kids, growing urbanization proximity is associated with higher levels of park use and increased obligations in other parts of our lives. and physical activity among a variety of populations, Reconnecting citizens to nature continues to be a particularly among youth. A national survey of U.S. adults focus of the 2014 plan. found that those who perceived that park facilities were accessible to them were almost twice as likely to meet A national movement to address children’s disconnect recommended physical activity levels as those who did with nature was spawned by the book Last Child in not perceive parks as being accessible.16 the Woods.15 Author Richard Louv and many others since then, have suggested that children without a Citizens have not lost the desire to spend more time connection to the outdoors will be less inclined as outdoors, which offers promise. The online survey found adults to appreciate the values our natural resources that 77 percent of respondents would like to become provide humanity, and therefore would be less likely to more involved in outdoor recreation activities in the

PaOutdoorRecPlan.com 35 p riority • Health and Wellness

total more than 400, use fitness stations on a city park trail to record their progress. Health seminars throughout the year also help members stay on task with their outdoor fitness goals.

Pennsylvania is also becoming more diverse. In 2000, the U.S. Census Bureau found that 16 percent of Pennsylvania residents belonged to a minority group; in 2010, the percentage had grown to 20 percent and is expected to grow over the next two decades. Tailoring programming and facilities to draw minorities into the outdoors can help to increase physical activity.

For instance, at Lehigh Gap Nature Center in Slatington, future. In addition, 63 percent of residents surveyed Lehigh County, Latino youth are trained and paid to lead agreed or strongly agreed that communities should do bilingual environmental education programs and nature more to reconnect citizens to the riverfront, particularly walks for families in Allentown’s parks and nearby natural those responding from urban areas, implying interest in areas, including Jacobsburg Environmental Education river or waterside activities. And 69 percent indicated Center. The connection with Jacobsburg led to the they would be more likely to use a trail if it was within formation of the Conservation Leadership Academy easy walking distance. in 2014. With a grant from the PA Department of • Challenge Environmental Protection and support from Jacobsburg and Moravian College, the Academy hosted 10 urban Pennsylvania’s population is aging and youth from Allentown in a weeklong intensive day camp becoming more racially and ethnically diverse. that will hopefully become an annual event to develop Pennsylvania is an aging state, with the number of interest in conservation in the Latino community. citizens over 65 projected to grow to 23 percent of the More research is needed on the outdoor facility, land- state’s population by 2030. Older citizens have more scape and programming needs of racially and ethnically disabling health conditions, many of which can be improved by physical activity. diverse audiences in order to increase their participation in outdoor recreation. If parks are to help address health concerns of aging Pennsylvanians, the facilities and programming must • Challenge match the need, such as accessible trails, fitness The built environment in many communities stations and walking programs. Many of our local parks discourages healthy outdoor behaviors. are designed for children, with recreation services geared toward children. The trend will likely continue, While the state is replete with outdoor recreation venues, with playgrounds ranking as the highest priority for many Pennsylvanians are restricted to what they can future investment with providers. Although it is criti- access. Citizens from all socioeconomic groups must cally important to engage young people in outdoor be able to get to facilities safely and affordably in both recreation opportunities, older Pennsylvanians are an urban and rural areas. increasingly significant constituency, and programs and Ideally, citizens should have access to parks, trails and facilities will need to serve their needs. open spaces simply by walking out their door or hopping The City of Allentown’s parks and recreation depart- on their bikes. Many citizens are restricted by the sprawl- ment created the LifeTrail Club in 2011 for its citizens ing nature of Pennsylvania’s development. For some, the over the age of 55. Members of the club, which now only accessible open space is their backyard.

36 2014–2019 Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Plan • Opportunity Designated Walk Pennsylvania’s aging population is more active Friendly Communities and is looking to the outdoors as a venue. • Philadelphia – Silver • Indiana – Bronze The activity rate among older Pennsylvanians is rising,

Source: Walk Friendly Communities so how are communities addressing the recreation demands of this growing demographic?

Park capacity — the number of parks and/or community Although the PA State Health Assessment found that landmass devoted to parks and open space — is also less than half of Pennsylvania’s adults participate in the associated with physical activity. For example, a study CDC-recommended 150 minutes of physical activity in Portland, Oregon found that communities with more each week, those aged 55 to 65 exceed the national recreation facilities and green space had higher levels average.19 Though the lower rates of activity for other of walking than those communities with less capacity.17 age groups are concerning, the higher rate among Another Oregon analysis found that the prevalence Pennsylvania’s older residents is an opportunity. of hiking and urban trails was associated with higher Seventy-five percent of respondents to the resident proportions of physically active adults. Counties survey — the average age of whom was 59 — cited where people were more engaged in non-motorized walking as an outdoor recreation activity they trail-related activities, road and street activities (e.g., participate in, and the top four activities with highest walking, jogging, biking) and other outdoor sports frequency of participation were: walking on local were more likely to have higher overall proportions of streets/sidewalks, walking with a dog, walking on trails/ physical activity.18 paths and jogging. In Pennsylvania, encouraging the development of Structured programs specifically designed for seniors walkable and bikeable communities is important to can contribute to visitation levels within parks. Parks residents, as is creating attractive streetscapes that that have an active programming element are shown to support walking. The majority of citizens believe have higher levels of physical activity. For example, a it is important that greenways and trails connect study of Los Angeles city parks found that parks with a neighborhoods with schools, shopping areas, parks greater number of supervised activities and programs and open spaces. They also think on-road bike lanes had higher visitation levels. Having events at the park should be increased, ranking second on the list of was the strongest correlate of use and community-level recreation area and facility needs. physical activity.20

Building communities that encourage healthy behaviors demands the cooperative efforts of planners, local governments, transportation officials, community Designated partners, schools and others. Having more than 2,500 Bike Status municipalities in Pennsylvania often creates fragmenta- Communities tion: sidewalks end abruptly and bike lanes fade away at • Philadelphia – Silver municipal lines due to differing policies and practices. In • Franklin – Bronze the Susquehanna Greenway along the Susquehanna • Pittsburgh – Bronze River, protecting a landscape and providing access • State College – Bronze • York – Bronze requires working with more than 20 counties and over Source: League of American 150 municipalities with varying levels of zoning and Bicyclists development requirements. Because planning and maintaining such projects is complex and often requires much effort, it can be challenging to succeed.

PaOutdoorRecPlan.com 37 p riority • Health and Wellness

Connecting parks and trails to senior centers, or • Opportunity incorporating outdoor recreation facilities and programs There is a new focus on wellness in the within a center’s grounds, can provide an easy outlet provision of health care to contain costs and for activity without the need to bus residents to remote comply with federal law. locations. In 2013, DCNR invested $7.4 million in Benjamin Rush State Park, a previously undeveloped The Affordable Care Act has spurred a new interest in state park outside of Philadelphia, to construct trails containing health care costs and encouraging wellness. and other amenities, which connect directly with the The ACA contains provisions that encourage health Delaware Valley Veterans Home. and wellness as part of the overall health care delivery The 15.5-mile Lebanon Valley Rail Trail runs from the system in the U.S., including: Lebanon County/Lancaster County line north to the City of Lebanon. When the trail was being developed • Incentives for employer wellness programs, which from Mt. Gretna to Cornwall Borough, the Lebanon are intended to lower the overall cost of health care Valley Rails-to-Trails organization formed a key partner- benefits for employers by encouraging employees ship with the Cornwall Manor Retirement Community, to improve and maintain their health. The increasing located adjacent to the trail. Today, Cornwall Manor prevalence of employer wellness programs may features the trail in its advertisements, and pathways provide opportunities for private businesses to have been constructed to link its campus with the rail seek out partnership opportunities to encourage trail. The residents use the rail trail regularly to socialize, healthful outdoor recreation opportunities in go birding and get exercise. their communities. • Community Health Needs Assessments are required to be submitted every three years by 501(c)(3) hospitals to maintain their tax-exempt status. Each hospital must adopt an implementation strategy to meet the community health needs identified, and they must submit a description of how the organization is addressing the health care needs of the community every year. This requirement of hospitals is spurring unlikely partnerships in many communities and may present opportunities for these communities to work together to improve upon the provision of outdoor recreation as a way to address health needs.

38 2014–2019 Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Plan PennDOT is in the process of developing a Long-Range Transpor- tation Plan to inform agency decisions and assess whether plan policies — like bike/ped — and investments are achieving their desired impact. The plan will include ways to integrate active transportation, including bicycle and pedestrian design principles, into the transportation project development process. • Opportunity The PA On Track website provides opportunities for More opportunities exist for coordination of the public to engage in the planning process and planning efforts to address health concerns. provide feedback.

Responding effectively to Pennsylvania’s obesity and In addition, the many successful partnerships that chronic disease crisis involves the work of several have recently formed at the local, state and national state agencies, health care providers, community levels to promote the link between outdoor recreation groups and private businesses. Coordination among and health and wellness are a testament to a grow- these agencies and organizations on planning and ing movement in this direction. At the national level, implementing long-range plans for addressing this these include the National Environmental Education crisis should provide a venue for outdoor recreation Foundation’s Children and Nature Initiative: Rx for advocates to be considered as part of the solution. The Outdoor Activity and the National Park Service’s partnership between DCNR and the PA Department of Healthy Parks Healthy People program. Health as it moves forward with the Pennsylvania State Health Improvement Plan is one such opportunity. At the state level, the successful Get Outdoors PA program added the PA Department of Health to its list Similarly, in partnership with DCNR and other public of flagship partners in 2014 to expand the program’s and private entities, the PA Department of Health is health connections and messages. Get Outdoors working on a grant through the Centers for Disease PA provides a centralized venue to promote guided Control and Prevention that spans four health areas outdoor recreation activities such as hiking, canoe- (School Health; Nutrition, Physical Activity and Obesity; ing and biking, to engage new audiences and to Diabetes Prevention and Control; and Heart Disease create meaningful and lasting connections between and Stroke Prevention) to address chronic disease Pennsylvania’s citizens and its natural resources. risk factors and ultimately prevent and reduce obesity, diabetes and heart disease. Currently, the partners At the local level, such programs as Lighten up are working with 15 targeted school districts to create Lancaster involve a coalition of concerned individuals programs that encourage physical activity in their representing all facets of the community who work communities, with a focus on walking, informational together to make policy, system and environmental outreach and designing of streets and communities for changes to help increase the number of people who physical activity. are a healthy weight.

PaOutdoorRecPlan.com 39 p riority • Health and Wellness

More than 200 people took advantage of the route the first year, growing to 380 during the summer of 2014. At the state level, transportation funding reflects recognition that there is a need to provide more opportunities for active transportation. Under Act 89 of 2013, Pennsylvania’s comprehensive transportation funding plan, two new dedicated multimodal funds were created, which commit at least $2 million a year to pedestrian and bicycle facilities. In its largest gathering in its 18-year history, the national 2014 Pro Walk/Pro Bike/Pro Place conference was held in Pittsburgh, chosen as a living demonstration of an urban area transforming its city spaces and transportation networks. National experts presented scores of successful case studies of how public and private sectors, driven by advocacy, political leadership and philanthropy are creating great public spaces and transportation networks that serve the citizens and foster change. Innovative partnerships can expand the recreation hori- zon for many people. Collectively, the evidence suggests the closer people live to parks, the more parks that are One promising effort to promote park use — and available, the more things there are to do in parks, and ultimately improved physical activity and health the more well-maintained parks are, the more likely they outcomes — is to enlist the medical community to are to be used and the more physical activity that occurs prescribe parks as a means to ameliorate chronic in these spaces. However, the health value of park and health conditions and risk markers. While these outdoor recreation services extend beyond their associa- programs have been warmly received within the park tions with physical activity and weight status. Park and and outdoor recreation industry, their long-term outdoor recreation areas and experiences can contribute effects upon various health outcomes are unknown. to psychological or mental health outcomes as well. p• Op ortunity The built environment has a strong influence 13 Weitzel, G. A., & Mowen, A. J. (2010). Coping with and recovering from the Great Recession. Parks and Recreation, 45(8), 37–41. on community health, in both positive and 14 Intersections: Health and the Built Environment. Washington, D.C.: negative ways. Urban Land Institute, 2013. 15 Louv, R. (2005). Last Child in the Woods. Chapel Hill, NC: Algonquin Organizations and communities are beginning to Books. recognize and advocate for linking health and wellness 16 Brownson, R. C., Baker, E. A., Housemann, R. A., Brennan, L. K., & Bacak, S. J. (2001). Environmental and policy determinants of to the way our buildings and communities function physical activity in the United States. American Journal of Public through the built environment. Health, 91(12), 1995-2003. 17 Li, F., Fisher, K. J., Brownson, R. C., & Bosworth, M. (2005). Multilevel Many walkable/bikeable communities incorporate modeling of built environment characteristics related to neighborhood walking activity in older adults. Journal of Epidemiology and common areas where people can have community Community Health, 59(7), 558-564. gardens and open spaces for unstructured play. 18 Rosenberger, R. S., Bergerson, T. R., & Kline, J. D. (2009). Some cities, like Pittsburgh, have developed Macro-linkages between health and outdoor recreation: The role of parks and recreation providers. Journal of Park and Recreation pedestrian/biking thoroughfares that connect portions Administration, 27(3), 8-20. of the city. Others are creating walking groups to 19 Pennsylvania State Health Assessment, 2014. Retrieved from connect people using technology. http://www.portal.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/healthy_ schools%2C_businesses_and_communities/11601/state_health_ In 2013 and 2014, Frances Slocum State Park partnered assessment_page/1533419 20 Cohen, D. A., Marsh, T., Williamson, S., Derose, K. P., Martinez, H., with the local public bus transportation, which offered Setodji, C., et al. (2010). Parks and physical activity: why are some a special route to the park during the summer months. parks used more than others? Preventive Medicine, 50, S9-S12.

40 2014–2019 Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Plan p riority • Health and Wellness case studies

Parks Prescription Programs Get Your Tail on the Trail In a perfect marriage between recreation and the “Build a healthier community one mile at a time” is medical community, parks prescription programs are the goal of a new partnership between St. Luke’s taking hold in several cities across the country. In one University Health Network and the Delaware and such example, Dr. Robert Zarr kickstarted a program Lehigh National Heritage Corridor. “Get Your Tail on in 2013 in the nation’s capital to provide a healthy, safe the Trail” incentivizes people for traveling the 165 and affordable treatment option that is easily acces- miles that make up the D & L Trail in northeastern sible to families in the D.C. area. Prescribing parks Pennsylvania via foot or bicycle or a combination of is a very low risk, the two. The free program doles out rewards at key affordable option for milestones. Participants log their mileage through treatment of chronic the “Trail Tracker,” receive prizes as they complete diseases, including their goals and can even receive additional prizes diabetes, obesity, for doubling or tripling the 165-mile goal. In addition, high blood pres- the partnership has sponsored many special events sure and mental throughout the six-month program for participants, illnesses such as which count towards the mileage goal. These special depression. More than 350 parks have events include 5Ks to benefit local charitable groups, been mapped, categorized by safety, cleanliness and a celebration at the half-way mark of the program activity level and compiled into a database that is and special sponsored events provided by L.L. Bean, linked to physicians’ electronic medical records. Since such as paddleboarding and a “Kayak Discovery inception, doctors have written more than 400 parks Course.” During the first year of the program, which “prescriptions.” launched in the spring of 2013, 2,500 participants logged a total of 255,000 miles. During the Winter The prescriptions specifically address where and Mini-Challenge in 2014, 580 participants tracked when a child will play outside for that particular week, 44,000 miles. which helps the child, as well as the family, to have a specific treatment plan and goal for the week. The database of park options provides peace of mind in finding a safe and accessible park, reducing the anxiety level some citizens may have in an urban setting. The program also hopes to instill a sense of value for the environment so that these children can become the next generation of environmental stewards.

This program was conceived with the help of the National Park Service and volunteers from the School of Public Health at George Washington University, as well as with support from park rangers and physicians. Funding from the National Recreation and Park Association, National Environmental Education Foundation and the American Academy of Pediatrics made this program possible.

PaOutdoorRecPlan.com 41 p riority • Health and Wellness case studies

Get Outdoors (GO!) York Who doesn’t love a scavenger hunt? Banking on kids’ love of searching for things, the Healthy York County Coalition launched “Get Outdoors and Experiment” within 26 parks and trails in York County. Thirty scientific terms were hidden throughout parks and trails on wooden markers, and hints to the location of markers were found in the “Go and Experiment” Lab Everybody Walk Across PA Notebook, downloaded from the Go York website. The Not everyone gets to travel across northern terms related to scientific Pennsylvania by car on the 400-mile iconic PA Route disciplines including 6, so why not do it by foot? The Route 6 Alliance chemistry, biology, medicine and recently partnered with Penn State Extension as part physics. Each term had a unique etching alongside of its “Road to Health” initiative to create a program it, and participants who collected at least three called “Everybody Walk etchings received a prize and were entered to win one Across PA.” For two of three grand prizes. The more etchings found (i.e. months in the spring of parks visited), the more chances to win a grand prize. 2014, Pennsylvanians Free activities in the parks were held during were encouraged to take a the scavenger hunt to encourage participation in virtual walk along Route 6. the program. Participants registered in teams of five, and each team member was to exercise “Outdoor Berks” Phone App and report at least 10 miles per week. Participation “Outdoor Berks” is a rates were three times greater than expected phone app developed during the first eight-week session, with over 250 by Reading Health teams committed to walk at least 50 miles a week. System’s Community Participants logged over 107,000 miles. Everybody Health Department, Walk Across PA provided participants with a team with funding assistance support network as well as useful information for provided by The Friends a healthy lifestyle and a history lesson along the of Reading Hospital. 400-mile journey. Respondents to a post-walk survey The app can be used to indicated that 94 percent increased their physical search by location or amenity through 170 parks and activity, and 42 percent increased their vegetable and trails located throughout Berks County, and users can fruit intake. bookmark favorite parks as well. The app is free to download and can be used on both Apple and Android devices. It enables residents and visitors to easily sift through and discover the many beautiful and free outdoor amenities that Berks County has to offer.

See Appendix I for more case studies.

42 2014–2019 Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Plan p riority • Health and Wellness R ecommendations and Actions

1. 1 Reconnect people to the outdoors through 33. Examine the built environment and recreation opportunities and experiences. encourage local communities to promote • ACTION STEPS healthful transportation alternatives. a. Celebrate Get Outdoors PA annually with special • ACTION STEPS Get Outdoors Days hosted by regional community a. Continue to align PennDOT and DCNR trail partners that offer instructional programs for development, including bicycle and pedestrian trail various outdoor recreation activities. coordination and grant making. b. Provide templates to state and local parks b. Develop land use planning guidelines and agencies for them to list amenities, resources and best practices to integrate outdoor and green educational materials so schools and youth-based infrastructure initiatives within multi-municipal organizations can more easily incorporate local comprehensive plans and/or greenway and open outdoor activities into curricula. space plans. c. Use the PA Department of Health’s 15 pilot c. Provide guidelines and technical assistance school districts to develop, implement and evaluate to help communities conduct walkability and comprehensive school physical activity programs, bikeability assessments and apply for national and identify opportunities to connect youth to the recognition as bicycle- and/or walk-friendly outdoors through places for physical activity. communities. d. Provide a best-practices forum to encourage d. Provide technical assistance to communities local efforts to use technology to design and to consider the addition of bicycle lanes, where develop programs that link people to the outdoors. appropriate, during the planning process for e. Identify partner organizations to spearhead at transportation projects. least five programs that encourage participation e. Provide technical assistance to help in outdoor recreation opportunities by diverse communities and school districts take advantage populations with guidance from the Governor’s of multimodal and transportation alternative advisory commissions on African American, Asian funding opportunities in PennDOT, DCED and the American and Latino affairs. Commonwealth Financing Authority to address 2. 2 Continue to strengthen connections between challenges in the built environment. outdoor recreation and health in communities 44. Enhance and promote healthful outdoor for people of all ages and abilities. recreation through strategic partnerships • ACTION STEPS with the health care community. a. Fund and support pilot programs with innovative • ACTION STEPS partnerships that build a health and wellness a. Develop Pennsylvania-specific park/trail connection with outdoor recreation programming, “prescription” programs to encourage physical emphasizing active recreation, diverse populations activity in the outdoors in cooperation with health and volunteer recruitment and training. care providers, insurance companies, health b. Link state grant program criteria to community foundations, economic development organizations, projects designed to strengthen the health and local government associations and social service outdoor recreation connection. providers. c. Develop educational materials and best b. Encourage partnerships between recreation practices to highlight and encourage local and planning professionals and the health care successes in linking outdoor recreation and health community to identify private funding opportunities, for planning, recreation, community and health cooperate in community wellness efforts and care leaders. implement community health assessment strategies. d. Identify and work with five pilot communities, representing specific population groups, to develop c. Convene statewide and regional summits that and distribute materials that highlight available bring together health care and parks and recreation outdoor amenities and correlating fitness benefits. professionals to explore ways to improve physical activity through outdoor recreation.

PaOutdoorRecPlan.com 43 p riority • Local Parks and Recreation

Priority • L ocal Parks and Recreation enhancing close-to-home outdoor recreation

KEY THEMES C hallenges O PPORtunities

• Park diversity • Sufficient and stable • New funding sources to • Funding funding sources support local parks • Repositioning • Aging infrastructure and • Sharing best practices facility maintenance • Partnerships • New technologies for • Positioning parks and information sharing programs as essential • Intergovernmental public services cooperation • Non-traditional partners

ennsylvania’s outdoor recreation plans consistent with citizens’ needs and interests and have not comprehensively addressed add to their health, sense of well-being and sense of local parks since 1980, when a priority community. Local parks deliver opportunities for play called for “more recreation facilities and physical activities and promote mental and spiritual and programs near or where people well-being and environmental stewardship. Local parks live.” With issues like the recession, often provide a sense of place and a gathering space, aging infrastructure and a heavy emphasis over the P and are the heart of a community. last decade on greenways and trails, members of the Technical Advisory Committee requested a focus on Local parks are also the most popular areas for local parks in the 2014 plan to address the facilities recreation. Ninety-one percent of Pennsylvanians who residents use the most. participate in outdoor recreation report visiting a local or county park within the past year. For most Pennsylvanians, local parks serve as the primary venues for their outdoor recreation pursuits. From small neighborhood pocket parks to larger Pennsylvanians spend more time at their local community or county-level recreation areas, these and county facilities than all other public and locations are tapped for their close-to-home benefits. private outdoor recreation facilities combined.

While the number and size may differ, local parks Fortunately, the majority of Pennsylvanians have access afford communities the opportunity to provide quality to a local park. The state’s first comprehensive statewide recreation experiences to residents of all ages by local parks data layer, developed by DCNR in 2012, offering recreation programs and services that are mapped a total of 5,600 local parks, encompassing

44 2014–2019 Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Plan parkland (Figure 12). The size of parks also varies from small pocket parks of less than one acre to county parks encompassing thousands of acres, and every size in between. Half of all local parkland in Pennsylvania is located within 70 municipalities — the state’s densely populated urban areas. The majority of these larger urban municipalities have an average of six local parks.

Local spending on parks and recreation is equally as diverse and challenging to analyze. Based on the best F igure 11: Municipalities With and available data through the PA Department of Community Without Local Parkland, 2013 and Economic Development, from 2008-2012 munici- Municipalities without local parks (n=887) palities spent about $457 million on recreation, or Municipalities with local parks (n=1,675) $36 per capita. The median recreation expenditure per Source: Center for Rural PA municipality was $13,627. While municipalities spend 171,400 acres. Using this GIS layer, DCNR teamed up an average of 3 percent of their total expenditures on with the Center for Rural Pennsylvania for the first-ever recreation, two-thirds either had no recreation expendi- analysis of how many Pennsylvanians are served by tures or spent less than $25,000. Municipal recreation a local park, where Pennsylvania’s local parks are spending is closely correlated to population; the larger located, which municipalities are without local parks, the municipal population, the higher the spending. Of and how much local funding is spent on park facilities concern, this data shows that from 2003-2012, municipal 21 and recreation services. recreation spending declined an average of 12 percent. This supports expressed concerns about the financial The analysis showed the majority of Pennsylvania’s challenges involved in the provision of local park and municipalities (65 percent) have one or more local recreation services. parks. About 91 percent of Pennsylvanians live in a municipality with a local park. Among urban residents, Recent focus on local parks and recreation began in that number climbs to 98 percent. earnest in 2010 when 100 professionals from across Pennsylvania convened for a leadership summit in While there are an abundance of parks throughout the Philadelphia to develop priorities and recommendations state, one-third of municipalities do not have a local for recreation in Pennsylvania. Highlights included the park (Figure 11). Most of the communities without local need for a statewide marketing campaign, additional parks are located in the more rural areas of the state, documentation on local recreation particularly in the northcentral region, which presumably offers outdoor recreation through the large swaths of public lands there. In addition, the data analysis Mun. with 10 to 49 revealed more than 2,200 school sites that may acres of serve as the local park for rural municipalities. Mun. Mun. Mun. with local parkland Further research is needed to evaluate how and without with <10 acres 35% if the local recreation needs are being met in local local of local rural Pennsylvania and the 10 percent of urban parkland parkland parkland 35% 65% 35% municipalities that may not have publicly Mun. with 50+ acres of owned local parkland. local parkland 30% Local parks are diverse. Slightly more than one-third of Pennsylvania’s municipalities have fewer than 10 Figure 12: acres of parkland; 35 percent have 10 to 49 acres of Municipalities by Acres of parkland; and 30 percent have 50 or more acres of Local Parkland, 2013

Source: Center for Rural PA

PaOutdoorRecPlan.com 45 p riority • Local Parks and Recreation

and park benefits, more promising practices on encouraging active living, connecting people to nature repositioning services, and additional focused work and promoting social equity. The initiative has been on urban parks, green parks and connecting with formalized into the creation of the PA Urban Park the health community. and Recreation Alliance, and an action plan is being implemented. Since that summit, strengthening urban parks and recreation systems has emerged as a top statewide In 2014, as a research element to this plan, a more priority. Pennsylvania has 53 cities and 30 boroughs comprehensive provider survey was undertaken with populations greater than 10,000. According to to assess the needs, priorities and challenges of the Pennsylvania State Data Center, four out of five Pennsylvania elected officials, appointed officials and citizens in Pennsylvania live in urban areas. The urban park and recreation directors, who help to provide population is 10.6 million, comprising 84 percent of the outdoor recreation to the public. One hundred thirty commonwealth’s citizenry. These data make the case recreation and park directors with more established for a priority focus. and comprehensive systems completed the survey. The majority response, however, was from more than In 2012, DCNR, the PA Recreation and Park Society 900 elected and the PA Municipal League launched the Urban and appointed Playgrounds are a top priority Recreation Initiative, with a goal of making urban officials from for future investment among areas in Pennsylvania healthier, more livable and predominantly recreation providers. economically competitive through the revitalization rural, small and development of parks, green space and recreation government with limited facility, staffing and budgetary opportunities. capacity. This feedback helped to provide more input on the needs of rural Pennsylvania municipalities. As part of the initiative, six focus groups were conducted in 2012 to help develop an action plan. The provider survey found that playgrounds are a The groups identified maintenance as the chief problem top priority for future investment among recreation facing urban systems. Programming and services providers, with nearly 60 percent giving them a high were cited as being essential to increased park use, priority rating. Neighborhood parks, community or

46 2014–2019 Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Plan Representing diverse park systems and services, the recent urban and rural provider feedback and analysis collectively suggests that local park and recreation services have experienced considerable challenges related to their capacity to invest in parks and provide recreation programs to a changing population. Repositioning park and recreation services as essential community investments will be critical in advancing the work of recreation providers.

The National Recreation and Park Association recently launched an initiative that could help Pennsylvania’s local park and recreation providers in the repositioning of public parks, recreation and conservation services as the gateways to healthy, prosperous and connected communities. Consideration should be given by local providers in using the three “pillars” developed by regional parks, team sport facilities and community or NRPA — conservation, health and wellness, and regional trails rounded out the top facilities for future social equity — to demonstrate how local parks are an investment. On the other hand, citizens in the online invaluable public resource and worthy investment. survey ranked community or regional trail systems • Challenge as their priority investment facility (73 percent), Sufficient and stable funding sources are followed by opportunities for water-based recreation scarce for existing and new recreation and community or regional parks. Respondents to facilities and services. the resident survey thought that Pennsylvania needs more on-road bike lanes, rental cabins, natural and For all of the health and societal benefits parks and rec- wild areas, dog parks and bicycle paths. These varied reation services provide to citizens, they only command opinions on facility needs reinforce the importance of a small fraction of local governments’ budgets. Parks more analysis of local recreation and park needs as and recreational expenditures comprise, on average, part of county comprehensive plan updates. about three percent of the total municipal expenditures.

Local parks and recreation offer a range of benefits to the citizens M aintaining existing park and recreation areas is they serve, but those benefits vary overwhelmingly the biggest challenge for recreation providers. in importance depending on the audience. When surveyed, the providers of parks and In the 2014 Pennsylvania provider survey, 24 percent recreation services perceive the greatest benefits of respondents indicated their tax-supported funding as “providing a safe place for children to play” and for operational expenses has declined; 29 percent said funding for capital projects has declined. Nearly “making the community a more desirable place to live,” two-thirds reported level funding for operations over while the users of those services — the citizens — view the past three years. the health benefits of parks and recreation areas as their greatest benefit. More than three-quarters of local providers perceive significant challenges in securing alternative, non- This apparent disconnect between the providers and traditional revenue sources. The majority believes that users of parks and recreation services could have retaining the funds allocated for parks and recreation implications for statewide recreation objectives. will be a major challenge for the future.

PaOutdoorRecPlan.com 47 p riority • Local Parks and Recreation

Federal support of local parks through grant programs the recession has been particularly hard on capital is an important way to leverage local park investments. funding, and without local capital funds, it is difficult to Funding from federal government programs such as the secure the required match for state funding sources. Land and Water Conservation Fund and the Urban Park and Recreation Recovery Program has declined sharply in the past 20 years. The M unicipalities spend an average of just 3 percent LWCF is currently awarding funding at a level of their total expenditures on recreation. around one-tenth of its original rate. UPARR funding had declined severely since 1984 and was disbanded in 2002. State funding from some sources Maintaining existing park and recreation areas is such as Growing Greener II has ended. overwhelmingly the biggest challenge for recreation providers. Citizens also believe the maintenance of Layoffs, deferred maintenance, increased user fees, facilities should be the top priority of their local recre- reduced services and fewer grant opportunities have ation providers, as they did in the 2009 resident survey, been common themes over the past few years of bud- although with higher percentages in the 2014 survey. get austerity. Because of the diversity of Pennsylvania’s park systems, there is no magic formula for keeping Much of Pennsylvania’s local park system, particularly in parks open and thriving. rural areas, has been built and maintained by volunteer athletic associations and swim clubs and supported by • Challenge service clubs like the Lions and Kiwanis. The challenge Aging infrastructure and facility maintenance will be to maintain a stable volunteer base. consume most of the financial resources of park and recreation departments. While park professionals combat maintenance issues, they also have to manage other challenges like staffing, Many pools and playgrounds built decades ago are mobilizing public support, responding to emerging or deteriorating. Playfields and trails need constant new types of outdoor recreation, and addressing the attention and upkeep. Citizens are clamoring for more lack of youth engagement in outdoor recreation. trails and connectivity, and newer facilities are needed to meet changing audiences and interests. Local park Some communities have turned to creative solutions to administrators are faced with the constant challenge of meet maintenance challenges and build new facilities. fixing what they have and managing changing needs State College borough is using crowdfunding as a pilot and preferences. Based on the local provider survey, to involve the public in decision making and raise funds to support park improvements. The concept has great potential to serve as a model alternative revenue source.

• Challenge Park facilities and recreation programs are often not viewed as essential public services.

One of the biggest challenges of parks and recreation is being relevant to the general citizenry. To regain their community relevance, parks and recreation services must return to their historic foundation of health, conservation and social equity.

Elected officials are tasked with solving their community’s most pressing problems, and funds are invested in these areas, often leaving parks and recreation services

48 2014–2019 Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Plan Making the case for parks and recreation facilities and programs requires a cohesive way to collect beneficial case studies and disseminate that information to decision makers. Parks and recreation professionals’ time is dedicated to carrying out the core functions of their work, while documenting and heralding successes often goes uncaptured and unrecognized.

Public park and recreation amenities are a key element in the creation of desirable communities. They have a distinct value in the way they build community identity, cohesion and pride. Their presence creates a level of demand that raises property values and tax revenues. The challenge has always been associating a dollar value to park facilities and recreation short in times of fiscal distress. If parks are understood programs. Because of the unique variables involved, to be a response to these pressing problems, it is more it is complicated to perform a cost-benefit analysis on likely that elected officials will prioritize the recreation investments in local parks and recreation. investments needed for parks to thrive. • Challenge Building support for recreation and parks services Building partnerships with non-traditional requires leadership at the local level to educate both partners has benefits but can be challenging, the public and its politically active members about the risky and unconventional. many community benefits of parks, greenways, trails and outdoor recreation. Among these benefits are Pennsylvania’s local recreation and park system has the very real and measureable results of developing been built and supported by volunteers, traditional economic prosperity, enhancing environmental sustain- service clubs, and in many cases, strong partnerships ability and alleviating social problems — the very same with local school districts. But to be truly successful issues that public officials are elected to solve. and sustainable, park systems must now reach beyond these traditional sources to create new public-private Park advocates must become adept at conveying the partnerships of lasting value. economic impact these resources and services have on all citizens, not just the ones who use them. Having When added to the daily to-do list of facility mainte- a trained recreation professional can help with building nance and program development and promotion, support for recreation services. However, Pennsylvania building partnerships can be a difficult task for rec- has only 330 departments with paid professional park reation providers. There are few resources and little and recreation directors. While these departments grassroots support available for park and recreation serve at least half of Pennsylvania’s population, more professionals or community leaders to identify potential than 1,000 small, rural municipalities have limited partners and develop a meaningful proposal to work capacity to advocate and garner support. together for a common cause.

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Among the general citizenry, 59 percent of respondents to the resident survey strongly believe the state needs to increase its permanent source of funding for parks and recreation, and municipalities should have a permanent source of funding from general tax revenues.

Several new funding streams are providing an infusion of cash into local recreation facilities. Act 13 of 2012 allocates a percentage of fees collected from unconventional gas wells to counties and municipalities impacted by the drilling partially for use on environmental programs. A portion of the fees collected are deposited into the Marcellus Legacy Fund, which is Seeking out non-traditional partnerships will take time to distributed to all counties for use on conservation and forge a cohesive and meaningful relationship and identify recreation initiatives and also provided to the each other’s strengths and roles in the partnership. Commonwealth Financing Authority for greenway, trail and park grants. In 2013, the CFA invested $16.4 million Legal roadblocks and political implications must be in greenways, trails, open space and parks in munici- considered when forming partnerships. Exacerbating palities across the state. this issue is the relatively high turnover rates of local community leaders. Partnerships created by The Transportation Act 89 of 2013 created two multi- one administration may not last through the next. modal transportation funds. PennDOT now has a Creating partnerships is a constant process, requiring dedicated funding stream of at least $2 million a year considerable time and effort from what is often an for bicycle and pedestrian projects with an emphasis already overwhelmed and underfunded staff. on safety, shared use, pedestrian connectivity and partnerships. The CFA also receives at least $40 million Solid waste and water authorities, multi-cultural in multimodal funds. organizations, utility companies, health care organizations, tourism promotion agencies and A 2013 amendment to the state’s open space law land conservancies are examples of new partners allows for up to 25 percent of open space taxes to tapped by local park and recreation agencies. be used to develop, improve, design, engineer and maintain open space. This new flexibility enables p• Op ortunity municipalities with well-established open space New funding sources can expand local park protection programs to enhance their protected lands facilities and programs. with trails and other recreational facilities.

Pennsylvanians overwhelmingly support local and Additional funding flexibility also is available to state funding for local parks and recreation services. municipalities with the September 2014 passage of an About 70 percent of those polled in the Pennsylvania amendment to the Municipal Planning Code that allows online survey agree/strongly agree that providing municipalities to use a portion of the fees collected outdoor recreation services is a core role of both state from developers to maintain existing parks instead of and local government. solely building new facilities.

50 2014–2019 Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Plan • Opportunity By creating blogs and sharing knowledge through Sharing best practices can help to better websites and desktop webinars, local providers can plan, maintain, program and support local conveniently learn about design practices that result recreation. in less maintenance, how to create programs that appeal to diverse audiences or how to develop a “park Hundreds of examples — both in and out of state prescription” program in partnership with the local — point to innovative ideas and programs that are health community. positively impacting the health of residents, improving access to clean rivers, connecting children to nature • Opportunity and providing critical close-to-home services. Linkages New technologies can help to educate about are being made between local parks and other existing local recreation services and their benefits. recreation assets, like incorporating parks into a water trail. Abandoned mine lands are being converted to Parks need to attract new audiences to maintain off-road vehicle parks, and former waterfront industrial relevancy. New technologies can improve data sites are being reborn as city recreational gems. collection, build constituencies and inform citizens of the recreation opportunities that surround them. All of these efforts take courage and cooperation, but also start with one idea. Effectively sharing As noted in surveys, many people want to be more best practices may be the first step to getting these active, but could use help in finding out what there is to innovative ideas off the ground. With the broadening do and where to go for quality outdoor recreation expe- availability of technology, it has become easier to share riences. Local park and recreation providers should information among diverse community groups and do more to connect with Pennsylvanians through potential partners. online content and social media, says 58 percent of Pennsylvanians. When asked to cite their top methods Although there is no “one size fits all” approach to for planning where to go for outdoor recreation, more planning, maintaining and programming park facilities than half of the respondents list the Internet and a — which can make technical assistance on a broad quarter say social media, email and smart phone apps. scale quite challenging — there is still benefit to be gained from sharing specific ideas and techniques. Technology has greatly improved our access to Lacking in this process is a central and well-known information over the last five years. Websites like resource to collect and share these best practices as ExplorePATrails.com make use of interactive maps, well as funding to provide more localized and specific user feedback, directions and photos to draw people technical assistance. into trail locations. Mobile applications and websites tailored for smart phones provide fingertip access to recreation information, and more people are turning to this technology to find their information.

Technology can also build excitement for local recreation services and help people to connect with the natural resources. Contests that promote visitation with check-ins via smart phones or websites are growing in popularity and can benefit both citizens and providers. In the case of the Pottstown Health and Wellness Foundation, a contest among local parks encouraged visitors to vote for their favorite by scanning a QR code. The park with the most votes received a cash prize.

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Some local governments share a floating recreation and parks staff member called a circuit rider, who, through shared funding and grants from DCNR, works across political boundaries to deliver park programming and services. Since 1991, DCNR has helped to create more than 25 new multi-municipal recreation and park agencies through its circuit rider funding assistance. Some circuit riders work for two municipalities, like the Gettysburg Area Recreation Authority, one of DCNR’s newest circuit riders. Others work at a county level, like the partnership formed between Beaver and Lawrence counties in which a circuit rider was hired to provide assistance to both counties.

Due to recent economic challenges, municipalities While many people may know the location of their often struggled to gain approval to hire new staff, and local parks, the newly developed statewide map interest in hiring circuit riders waned. With increasing of local parks will help expand their knowledge of unmet needs and improving economic conditions, some what’s around them. Placing the map online and in a communities have prioritized parks and recreation, mobile application will provide the first-ever interactive illustrated by three new circuit riders funded by DCNR map of Pennsylvania’s local parks. Coupled with the in 2014. already existing interactive maps and mobile apps for Pennsylvania state parks and forests, the addition The PA Recreation and Park Society also has a of this local map layer will be a powerful information technical assistance service called RecTAP that offers tool for both the recreation providers and the citizens great potential to expand to more communities, with looking for recreation opportunities. up to $2,500 available for small projects. Mifflin County has tapped it to help build its first boat launch along the • Opportunity Juniata River. The Blue Mountain Recreation Commission Partnerships and intergovernmental in Schuylkill County improved the management of its cooperation can expand recreational capacity. public swimming pool through the program.

Perhaps Pennsylvania’s 2,562 individual municipalities Beyond regionalization, partnerships with other entities can’t all be expected to provide park and recreation will expand capacity. Volunteerism and community services to their citizens; however, citizens should not service is still thriving across Pennsylvania (see following be denied the right to access opportunities for outdoor case studies). recreation close to home. A final new opportunity is the leadership and support Pennsylvanians recognize that local government can’t from the National Recreation and Park Association that do it all, particularly the smaller ones. About 60 percent is available to help local providers be a loud voice for the of Pennsylvanians believe that municipalities should significance and impact of local parks and recreation join forces to provide parks and recreation services to services around conservation, health and wellness and their citizens. social equity. NRPA has developed considerable web- based educational materials and case studies around Intermunicipal cooperation for parks and recreation these three pillars. services is not a new concept. The Lancaster Recreation Commission — a cooperative effort among Lancaster City, Lancaster School District and Lancaster 21 Pennsylvania Local Parks and the Communities They Serve, 2014. Township — celebrated its 100th year in 2009. Appendix F.

52 2014–2019 Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Plan p riority • Local Parks and Recreation case studies

Winterfest free equipment is available, including kayaks, canoes, fishing poles, skis, snowshoes, sleds and ice skates as well as free hot dogs and hot chocolate during Winterfest. Much of this equipment is provided by Pennsylvania State Parks and Wellsboro Parks and Recreation. There are also nature walks, birding and educational courses on topics such as ice fishing. This program is a great way to get both children and adults out into the parks to enjoy all that they have to offer.

March for Parks – Westmoreland County To boost its ability to support programs and facilities, the Westmoreland County Parks and Recreation Department has held a March for Parks event for the last 12 years. In 2014, participants raised $104,000, which will be used for a variety of park-related initiatives and has been valuable in

helping to match other grants and to implement the Fleischman Sarah county’s comprehensive parks, recreation and open space plan. More than 1,050 marchers, 65 teams Gettysburg Alternative Sports Park and 80 businesses sponsored or participated in (GASP) – Adams County the walk. Sometimes you just have to take matters into your own hands if you want something to happen. That’s Step Outdoors – Tioga County what local youth did in Gettysburg to provide a venue Pooling resources helps to expand the reach of for BMX stunt riding, inline skating and skateboard- recreation initiatives. The Tioga County Partnership ing — activities that were not safe on the borough for Community Health has teamed up with several streets. A local advocacy group, Collaborating for state and local parks in the area Youth, petitioned for a skate park in the borough, to help host large events under a and eight years ago, the Gettysburg Alternative “Step Outdoors” brand, including Sports Park became reality for $87,000. Users pay a “Tryathlon” at Hills Creek State a low registration fee to offset some of the costs Park, a Trail Challenge at Ives Run associated with staffing the park, and the venue can Recreation Area, and Springfest be rented for private functions. A group that includes and Winterfest, both hosted at Hills a former BMX professional is currently lobbying for Creek State Park. At Springfest and longer hours and more activities at the park.

PaOutdoorRecPlan.com 53 p riority • Local Parks and Recreation case studies

“On Your Park, Get Set, Go!” – Love Your Park Week, Philadelphia Montgomery County Every year, A little friendly competition among local parks never Fairmount Park hurts, and in the case of the Pottstown Area Health Conservancy, and Wellness Foundation’s “On Your Park, Get Set, Philadelphia Parks Go!” contest, winning means money. Park users were and Recreation and encouraged to visit one of 12 area parks and cast Philadelphia park a vote for their favorite using one of friends groups col- several methods: scanning laborate to conduct a QR code on a sign a week-long celebra- in the park with their tion of Philadelphia’s smartphone, which parks. The focus of the 2014 event was the creation earned 10 votes per and installation of Philadelphia’s very first pumptrack visit; posting a photo — an area of hills and bumps designed for BMX and from the park, which mountain bikers. More than 90 parks took part in earned 10 votes; using the kick-off service project in 2014, and thousands Facebook to earn two votes; or emailing a “selfie” of volunteers photo taken at their chosen park, which earned participated in 10 votes. Bonus votes were also available by going the eight-day to the parks on Saturdays throughout the month. event. Park friends groups The park with the most votes received a $10,000 throughout the grant. The second-place winner received $7,500, and city put on events third-place received $5,000. There was also a lottery and activities worth $2,500 that the remaining participating parks during the celebration to help promote their parks. were entered into for a chance to win. Love Your Park Week helps instill a sense of community and promotes volunteerism and Parks were encouraged to host a variety of stewardship of these natural areas, in addition to outdoor events, including puppet shows and providing necessary maintenance for Philadelphia’s jazz performances, and to use an assortment of local parks. promotional strategies, such as handing out flyers to local business to draw people to the park. In all, more than 700 participated in the contest. Half of the total votes came from the QR code scans, meaning people were visiting the park while voting. Proof of that visitation came in via 400 “selfies” of park patrons enjoying their favorite parks, and Facebook friends for the Foundation more than tripled during the contest time period.

See Appendix I for more case studies.

54 2014–2019 Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Plan p riority • Local Parks and Recreation R ecommendations and Actions

11. Connect citizens to close-to-home recreational d. Encourage educational institutions to partner opportunities and green space. with local communities to share resources through mechanisms such as joint-use agreements and • ACTION STEPS collaborative programming. a. Develop a diverse collection of park and e. Support the creation of friends and advocacy playground designs that exemplify green practices, groups to assist park and recreation providers appeal to all ages and abilities, create whole-family in protecting, enhancing and interpreting natural recreation spaces and incorporate popular and resources, local parks and heritage areas. innovative trends in recreation. 44. Coordinate strategic investment in local b. Launch a mobile-friendly website for residents priorities and respond to emerging trends. to easily find local parks and collect photos, stories and amenities from users. • ACTION STEPS c. Identify and take steps to reduce barriers so that a. Work with all 67 counties to identify gaps in local every citizen has equal access to local and school outdoor recreation opportunities, and provide support parks and outdoor recreation opportunities. and technical assistance to advance recreation and conservation planning and implementation. d. Develop research to explore recreation needs and b. Collect nominations from local communities to behaviors of African Americans, Hispanics and other create a Top 10 most endangered parks list, and ethnic groups. partner with state and local agencies to target funding 22. Position local park facilities and recreation to revitalize these parks. programs as essential services. c. Create a new Rural Communities Leadership Team to develop an action plan including implementation, • ACTION STEPS funding and volunteer recruitment strategies for local a. Challenge local communities to increase the por- parks and recreation in rural areas. tion of their municipal budget dedicated to parks and d. Create a Natural Play Area Pilot Program to develop recreation to at least 5 percent over the next 5 years. and monitor natural play areas. b. Implement the recommended approach e. Implement the PA Urban Park and Recreation developed by Penn State University to assess the Alliance action plan for local parks and recreation in economic impact of local parks and recreation. municipalities with populations over 10,000 residents. c. Develop a unified brand for local parks 55. Provide expanded parks and recreation technical and recreation with accompanying marketing assistance to communities. strategy, toolkit and training that helps providers communicate the benefits and value of local parks • ACTION STEPS and recreation. a. Develop a Maintenance Institute promoting low- d. Establish a gold medal award program for maintenance design, preventative maintenance, green Pennsylvania local park and recreation agencies. and sustainable design and other practices that will reduce maintenance costs. 33. Create and leverage partnerships that expand b. Expand Recreation and Parks Technical Assistance outdoor recreation opportunities. Program (RecTAP) and the Peer Program to encourage • ACTION STEPS multi-municipal and county-based agencies through increased promotion and funding to municipalities. a. Partner with educators to expand environmental stewardship opportunities to increase efficiency, c. Enhance DCNR’s local parks web-based resources encourage local and state collaboration, focus on to feature best practices and resources on emerging topics such as green and sustainable practices, common priorities and increase youth involvement. funding, partnerships, technology and stewardship b. Increase the number of outdoor recreation events education. available to all regions of the state by adding 100 d. Hold a Recreation and Conservation Leadership new community partners to Get Outdoors PA. Summit, and launch a Leadership Development and c. Identify and promote strategic, alternative and Mentoring Program for parks, recreation and resource non-traditional revenue sources for recreation management professionals. programming and local parks.

PaOutdoorRecPlan.com 55 p riority • Tourism and Economic Development

Priority • T ourism and economic development

creating opportunities for community prosperity

KEY THEMES C hallenges O PPORtunities

• Measuring impact • Developing good • Pennsylvania’s broad • Coordinating among economic impact data diversity of recreational state agencies • Communicating benefits opportunities • Communicating benefits and economic impacts • Experiential programming • Enhancing current • Changing demands • Successful case studies marketing efforts and trends to demonstrate return on investment • Developing public-private • Maintaining funding partnerships • Interagency coordination • Public-private partnerships • Recreation-based towns

ennsylvania’s outdoor assets have long rivers, trails and parks and are hoping a renewed focus served as economic engines for the on these amenities will draw businesses and people to tourism industry. In 2012, 19 percent of the downtowns. Employers are using outdoor amenities to 189 million travelers to the state indicated draw a highly skilled workforce looking for quality of life their primary reason for travel was outdoor features outside of work. Some entrepreneurs, who can related. Those travelers listed swimming, locate anywhere because of an online business presence Pvisiting a state park or national park, camping and hiking as top outdoor activities they did on their vacation. Each rather than traditional bricks and mortar, are choosing visit to those lakes, parks, trails and forests generates places that offer extraordinary outdoor amenities and income for local communities. scenic beauty.

But the economic value of outdoor recreation is not just Heritage areas and conservation landscapes are another limited to tourist spending. Close-to-home recreation, way to garner more interest in recreation. Visitors are trails and green spaces promote active lifestyles and coming to many areas to experience the landscapes add to the economic viability and livability of communi- and the heritage tourism sites and are participating in ties. Increasingly, citizens are seeking out communities outdoor recreation while doing so. Agricultural tourism that offer outdoor amenities, open spaces and recre- features like corn mazes, farmer’s market tours and wine ational opportunities. Some of the country’s biggest trails are a growing trend and can be economic drivers cities, like Pittsburgh and Philadelphia, and small towns in Pennsylvania’s rural communities. Festivals, fairs and like Confluence and Ridgway in western and northwest- competitions focused on outdoor activities and natural ern Pennsylvania have recognized the value of their assets attract people year-round to the unique experi-

56 2014–2019 Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Plan ences offered by Pennsylvania’s big cities and small In February 2012, DCNR commissioned Penn State towns. From a national Bassmaster tournament held University to update its 2009 economic analysis of in 2014 on the Delaware River, to dark sky parties at Pennsylvania state park impact. Key findings showed Cherry Springs State Park in the PA Wilds, to dozens that Pennsylvania state parks hosted 37.9 million of endurance adventure races through Pennsylvania’s visitors who spent $859 million on their trips. The forests, these outdoor-related events infuse tens of direct contribution of visitor spending to the state millions of dollars into the local economies. When economy was $628.7 million in sales, supporting woven together, recreation-, heritage- and agriculture- 9,435 jobs. The study found that for every dollar based tourism provide a robust marketing strategy for invested in Pennsylvania state parks in 2010, attracting tourists to a region.

Pennsylvania’s vast state “ Our economy is no longer just about companies. It is about park and forest system is — two other things: people and places. It’s about how we want to and always has been — a live our lives and what kind of places we want to live in.” significant draw to tourists. To – Richard Florida in global bestseller The Rise of the Creative Class develop a better understanding of the site-specific impact of these areas, DCNR commissioned the Pennsylvania $12.41 of income is returned to the state economy. Visitor Use Monitoring project to survey expenditures This level of return was higher than previous by visitors in select state parks and forests. Average estimates due to increased visitation over the trip expenditures for a visitor to six state parks studied initial report. Similar to the site-specific visitor in the Pennsylvania Wilds region were $124; in a similar analysis, vehicle gas and oil represented the largest study for state parks in the Laurel Highlands and percentage of visitor spending.23 Poconos, trip expenditures averaged $187.22

PaOutdoorRecPlan.com 57 p riority • Tourism and Economic Development

the United States. Based on survey data collected in 2011 and 2012, OIA estimated that Americans spent $646 billion annually on outdoor recreation supporting 6.1 million jobs. OIA’s analysis of Pennsylvania-specific numbers showed outdoor recreation accounted for $21.5 billion in consumer spending, 219,000 direct Pennsylvania jobs, $7.2 billion in wages and salaries, and $1.6 billion in state and local tax revenue. The figures include both tourism and outdoor recreation product manufacturing.25

Not only does outdoor recreation provide important physical and mental benefits, it also provides tangible economic impacts to the areas in which it occurs. These financial benefits and the demonstrated positive return from outdoor recreation infrastructure investments means that it is important to sustain funding for this activity. In the face of budgetary challenges, there is a need to substantiate the economic value of funding for parks and outdoor A snowmobile study conducted in 2013 showed that recreation and sustain the investment through effective resident snowmobilers spend $96 million in Pennsylvania communications to decision makers and our citizens. on their trips, and an additional $57 million on equipment purchases. Add in out-of-state travelers, and the • Challenge total economic impact of snowmobiling in Pennsylvania Meaningful impact data is needed to inform topped $159 million a year. decision makers of economic benefits.

On a broader scale, Tourism Economics completed an Sound economic data draw the attention of decision economic analysis of tourism in Pennsylvania for makers. Selling the benefits of outdoor recreation — visitpa.com. This 2012 study found that tourism industry both social and economic — will require better data sales in Pennsylvania were $38.4 billion in 2012, with just and outreach to local officials and leaders. By focusing under 17 percent in spending associated with recreation on return on investment, recreation providers can make (both indoor and outdoor). This equates to roughly $6.4 the case that this is money well spent. billion dollars in spending, making it the third most profit- able industry in relation to tourism (behind transportation Despite tourism being a leading industry in Penn- and food/beverage services). Since 2008, recreation- sylvania, and outdoor recreation being a significant related spending has increased 14.3 percent from portion of that industry, there is little concerted effort $5.6 billion in 2008 to $6.4 billion in 2012. Though the to document its economic value in an organized classification for “recreation” in this study included both manner. Proven success stories, which demonstrate indoor and outdoor recreation and places like amuse- how new businesses are drawn to trail sides, riverfronts ment parks, it is clear that outdoor recreation can be and thriving recreation venues, are becoming more considered an important component to Pennsylvania’s prevalent. The challenge is that local recreation tourism and economic well-being.24 providers and land managers often do not have the On a national level, the Outdoor Industry Association time or resources to commission, seek out or analyze publishes an annual Outdoor Recreation Economy guide data from existing economic studies to make the case that details the economic value of outdoor recreation in for outdoor recreation investments.

58 2014–2019 Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Plan • Challenge Effective strategies for communicating economic impact are lacking.

New eateries and bike shops have emerged along long-distance trails like the Great Allegheny Passage and the Schuylkill Heritage River Trail. Wineries, artisan shops, country stores, lodging establishments and more have seen exponential growth in the Pennsylvania Wilds since its focused tourism strategy began driving people to the region in 2003. If shared, these success stories could aid other efforts that are struggling to find financial, citizen and political support. However, the decentralized nature of eco-tourism initiatives and tourism promotion in general in the state, coupled with the complexity of Pennsylvania’s governmental structure, can be barriers to communicating effectively and sharing success stories. People must be aware of the existing data, how to access it and how best to One such trail need is for off-highway motorized vehicle communicate it to different stakeholder groups, so they use, particularly ATVs, which has grown dramatically can be effective in sustaining and increasing support over the past couple of decades, generating pressure for the outdoor recreation and tourism industries in for the development of more trails on public lands to the state. meet rider demand. In Pennsylvania’s online survey, about 10 percent of the respondents specifically • Challenge wanted ATVs addressed in the outdoor recreation plan. Robust outdoor recreation-based business While large-scale public land development is unlikely development is dependent on meeting due to user conflicts and the significant resources user demands. needed for trail management and maintenance, private sector off-highway vehicle parks are receiving Knowing what visitors want can help to drive strategic state grant funding, such as the Rock Run Recreation investments into outdoor recreation tourism and Area and the Anthracite Outdoor Adventure Area. An outdoor recreation goods and services. Recent surveys ongoing assessment of these ATV parks and trails cite wildlife watching, paddle sports like kayaking and can help to determine what additional public-private stand-up paddleboarding, and adventure races as partnerships can help address this user interest. the top growing recreation interests. And, as citizens continue to express in survey after survey, trails of all Indicating another possible business development types top the lists of recreation needs. opportunity for both the public and private sectors, 56 percent of respondents in Pennsylvania’s resident survey believe that more rental cabins are needed to satisfy user demand. More data may be needed to determine whether this is a perceived need or an actual facility limitation in Pennsylvania.

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• Challenge Specific incentives are needed to further develop Pennsylvania’s outdoor recreation industry.

If you build it, they will come. This age-old adage may be true, but it takes guidance and financial assistance for small businesses and entrepreneurs to get off the ground and develop a successful business dependent on the outdoor recreation product.

Outdoor recreation-based businesses — from the bed and breakfasts dependent on the trail traveler to the makers of snowboards and kayaks located in and helps businesses navigate the existing service Pennsylvania — face challenges that other businesses provider network, it also promotes, shares and builds do not, such as seasonality, weather, water levels excitement for the outdoor recreation industry. This and snowfall. model may be well suited for other areas of the state.

Often times, tourism-related businesses have a • Challenge difficult time getting traditional financing, so success More agency and partner coordination is is dependent on public-private investment models essential to successfully promote the state where the commonwealth provides capital investment as an outdoor recreation destination. or grant funding to match local government or private sector funds. With multiple agencies and organizations charged with managing the state’s outdoor tourism product, DCED’s First Industries Fund for Tourism has helped messages and promotional efforts often compete. nonprofit and for-profit organizations to undertake Because of the economic value associated with tourism-related projects through grants, loans and loan tourism, there are incentives to stay parochial to get guarantees; however, new funding dollars are needed the best payoff for the local communities. to continue the program. Interagency cooperation can help determine how to Examples of support and incentives for small attract those who travel across Pennsylvania to get businesses and entrepreneurs do exist in Pennsylvania. from one place to another and help with local initiatives The Progress Fund, a community redevelopment to seek more tourism. Many tourist promotion agencies financing agency in southwestern Pennsylvania, has understand the value of their outdoor recreation places financed 29 businesses along the Great Allegheny and spaces, like the Cumberland Valley Visitors Bureau, Passage and received $2 million in federal funding in which has made outdoor destinations a central theme 2014, which will be used to make additional loans to in its marketing strategy. However, some fail to include new and existing businesses along the trail. trails, parks and rivers in their promotional materials and messages. In the PA Wilds, the commonwealth has invested in a small business ombudsman position that serves The new Pennsylvania Tourism Partnership, formed as a clearinghouse and a connector for businesses with public and private funding and leadership, is in the region who are seeking to invest or grow in the charged with developing and promoting a cohesive eco-tourism market. The ombudsman recently created Pennsylvania brand that will bolster local messages the PA Wilds Center for Entrepreneurship to help and campaigns. There is an opportunity in the small businesses learn what it takes to be successful. development of the brand and messaging to highlight The position not only offers technical assistance Pennsylvania’s outdoor recreation product.

60 2014–2019 Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Plan The Pennsylvania conservation landscape and heritage areas programs, established to promote broad-based Pennsylvania’s Assets: economic strategies for key landscapes across Opportunities Galore the state, have become models for cross-agency cooperation of businesses, tourism agencies and local • 120 state parks elected leaders. But even these established areas • 2.2 million acres of state forest land have not made all the connections to maximize the • 1.3 million acres of state game lands tourism potential. • 500,000-acre Allegheny National Forest • Opportunity • 85,000 miles of waterways Pennsylvania is known for exceptional • 76 natural lakes creating 5,266 acres outdoor recreation assets and experiences. of flatwater • 2,300 impoundments creating 200,000 Verdant hillsides, dark skies, deep forests and tran- acres of boatable waters quil waterways define Pennsylvania. These natural • More than 11,000 miles of trails, resources are the backdrop for nearly every kind of including more than 1,700 miles of outdoor recreation pursuit. With its four seasons and rail trails millions of acres of public lands, Pennsylvania can • 18 national park sites rival any state in the country for its outdoor recreation • 12 heritage areas options. Added to the wealth of facilities and options are hundreds of unique towns and cities that celebrate • 3 national wildlife refuges the spirit of the outdoors through fairs and festivals.

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Pennsylvania often makes the “best of” lists — from its long-distance trails like the Great Allegheny Passage, to its dark skies at Cherry Springs State Park, to its fishing and boating opportunities on Lake Erie at Presque Isle State Park. Columbia Borough, a river town on the banks of the Susquehanna River in Lancaster County, was named one of the “20 Best Small Towns to Visit in 2014” by Smithsonian Magazine. In its reporting of the recognition, the magazine cited its proximity to nearby state parks.

Pennsylvania’s consumptive sports, like hunting and fishing, have been long-held traditions that have large economic impact. Tracts of state game lands, making up a land base larger than the state of Delaware, exist in all but two counties of the state. More than 85,000 miles of streams and 75 natural lakes provide endless opportunities for fishing. Factor in the growing outdoor like bed and breakfasts and cafes, can partner with recreation activity — watching wildlife — and these recreation providers to create inclusive packages. sports fuel outfitters, guides, bait and tackle shops and mom-and-pop businesses throughout all of Sojourns — long distance journeys — by bike or boat Pennsylvania. have gained in popularity, providing multi-day immer- sion experiences into local cultures and recreation. • Opportunity Participants show up prepared for fun, with the worry of More economic opportunity exists through logistics left to the sojourn organizer. In 2013, organiza- development of specific outdoor recreation tions offered 15 river sojourns that traveled more than travel and experiential packages. 650 river miles, carrying 3,100 participants on journeys of fun and learning. Communities can take advantage of public invest-

ments and make a living by providing services to Quaint, small-town charm is one of Pennsylvania’s those coming to recreate. Significant investments have tourism selling points. Many travelers today are looking been made in public lands in recent years through for authentic experiences. Surveys show that most the Growing Greener and the Enhance Penn’s Woods outdoor enthusiasts also enjoy history and heritage programs, creating new and improved facilities that and often combine these experiences in their trips. enhance the outdoor experience. New overnight Visiting historic sites is the second most popular accommodations, visitor centers, viewing areas, trails outdoor activity cited in the resident survey. Heritage and events help visitors to make more connections with areas, recreation professionals and tourism promotion nature through extended stays. agencies should work together to create authentic experiences that combine visitors’ love of walking, In today’s world of abundant choices and information scenic driving and heritage to promote economic overload, many consumers turn to recreation providers development in communities. for help in creating a meaningful outdoor experience. Some of Pennsylvania’s heritage areas are offering A recent example of coordinated heritage/recreation pedal-paddle trips, where participants ride along the tourism was Pedaling Through National Parks, a two- trail to a destination — often times a trail town — then day, 60-mile bicycling trip through the Schuylkill River paddle a canoe or kayak back to their point of origin. Heritage Area showcasing the regional trail and three Private sector entities in the towns along the trails, national parks.

62 2014–2019 Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Plan p• Op ortunity Pennsylvania’s 12 heritage areas, five of which have national designations, have generated significant Detailed case studies are showing return economic benefits for local communities. In 2014, a on investment. study of the Lackawanna Heritage Valley National and Although a statewide comprehensive approach to State Heritage Area found that the region contributes documenting the economic impact of outdoor recreation $31 million in economic impact, supporting 386 jobs has not been developed, numerous site- or facility- and generating $2 million in tax revenue. specific studies show significant contributions of trails, • Opportunity visitor centers, state parks and forests. Public private partnerships leverage With funding from DCNR, the Rails-to-Trails resources to support outdoor recreation Conservancy has conducted eight visitor use and assets and private sector investment. economic impact studies on rail trails in Pennsylvania over the past few years. A 2012 study on the D & L Trail In the Greater Philadelphia region, the Circuit is widely in northeastern Pennsylvania concluded that 282,769 known in the planning and recreation community, annual user visits to the trail resulted in a total economic but perhaps is not as well known to area residents. impact of $19 million. From this figure, $16 million was Behind the scenes, the Circuit is working to build a estimated to be directly injected into the local economy. 750-mile pedestrian and bicycle network linking the entire greater Philadelphia region. A spider web of The 19-mile-long Perkiomen Trail in Montgomery lanes and trails covering about 300 miles are in place, County hosts nearly 400,000 unique visits each year, with an additional 50 miles in progress. Trail and circuit and those visitors generate an estimated $19.8 million development was enhanced in 2014 with a $7 million in economic activity. commitment from the William Penn Foundation, adding to $10 million in grants to kickstart the effort in 2012. The Great Allegheny Passage in southwestern Pennsylvania completed its final missing connectors An effort of this size requires a partnership of in 2013, making it one of the country’s longest trails — enormous magnitude, from small towns, to state 334 miles from Pittsburgh to Washington D.C. In a agencies, to city government, to foundations and survey of businesses along the trail in Pennsylvania, non-profits. As in the case of the Great Allegheny on average about 30 percent of gross revenues were Passage in southwestern Pennsylvania, small victories attributed to the trail, about five percent higher than and success stories of business development create a survey done in 2008-2009. excitement and build momentum.

In the Pennsylvania Wilds, outfitters, bed and breakfasts and local country stores have noted a marked increase in business since the state began making strategic investments into the outdoor recreation product in an effort to increase tourism to the area. The Benezette Hotel in Elk County invested in 2012 to expand its overnight capacity to meet the tourist

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assistance helps towns along a long-distance trail identify the assets that will be most attractive to trail users and capitalize on them. Based on the premise that trail users will venture off the trail to enjoy a town’s heritage, retail shops, eateries and other attractions, a trail town puts out a coordinated “welcome mat” to encourage tourism.

The Trail Town Program work started by the Allegheny Trail Alliance has been replicated in other landscapes. The Schuylkill Heritage Area developed a toolkit demand caused by the public-private investment that that had grant funding attached, which towns used to created the Elk Country Visitors Center just up the put ideas into action. In Pottstown, grants were used to road. The more than 300,000 people who flock to the create signs and kiosks along the trail to guide riders new center each year to see the largest elk herd in the through town via bike lanes. Northeast, also are creating a demand for more rooms, eateries and places to visit. The center was the result Trail Town successes have led to the development of of financial contributions of the commonwealth, the River Towns, with the river as the visitor draw rather non-profit Keystone Elk Country Alliance and private than a specific trail. In the Susquehanna Riverlands investors. The center gift shop also provides a venue conservation landscape in Lancaster and York counties, for 60 small businesses to sell locally made products the river towns of Marietta and Columbia benefit from and artisan wares. a recently developed riverfront park, boat access area and trail that all provide recreational access to hundreds • Opportunity of acres of open space along the Susquehanna River Creating connections between outdoor preserved by the five municipalities and Lancaster recreation and towns expands economic County. Users of these recreational facilities spur potential. visitation to history and heritage sites and businesses within the towns. A top recreation priority in Pennsylvania has been the 22 Mowen, A. J., Graefe, A. R., Ferguson, M. D., & Graefe, D. A. (2013) development of long-distance trails. Trail developers Pennsylvania State Parks Visitor Use Monitoring (VUM) Study – Year 1 Survey Results. Report to the Pennsylvania Department of Conser- and advocates argue that the longer the trail — particu- vation and Natural Resources. larly longer than 50 miles — the more people it attracts, 23 Mowen, A. J., Graefe, A. R., Trauntvein, N. E., & Stynes, D. J. (2012). The economic significance and impact of Pennsylvania State Parks: and in turn, the greater the economic return. Longer An updated assessment of 2010 park visitor spending on the state trails become destination trails. These ribbons of and local economy. Report to the Pennsylvania Department of Con- servation & Natural Resources. recreation make connections between places and are 24 Tourism Economics (2012). The economic impact of travel and tour- helping to build economic development and promote ism in Pennsylvania. Report for visitpa.com. Retrieved from: http:// www.visitpa.com/sites/new.visitpa.com/master/files/pdfs/ business opportunities that serve trail user needs. PA_Visitor_Economic_Impact_2011_State_and_County_FINAL_RE- PORT_Dec2012_0.pdf

25 The Trail Town concept emerged in 2005 as the Outdoor Industry Association (2012). The outdoor recreation economy: Take it outside for American jobs and a strong community. product of the work along the Great Allegheny Passage Retrieved from: http://www.outdoorindustry.org/pdf/OIA_Outdoor- RecEconomyReport2012.pdf. The Outdoor Industry Association: in southwestern Pennsylvania. Trail Town technical Boulder, CO.

64 2014–2019 Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Plan p riority • Tourism and Economic Development case studies

River Towns In the first two years, 19 businesses submitted Where they once carried commerce and served as plans. While every business can continue to receive the backbone of our industrialization, Pennsylvania’s assistance, the contest had six winners ranging rivers are again fueling new growth. from the traditional to the unique. A refurbished bed Launched in 2011 by the and breakfast will serve local products. A mobile ice Pennsylvania Environmental cream vending cart serves locally produced treats Council, the River Town program at trail events. A coffee shop rents GPS units leading focused on five communities trail users on tours. A fine dining restaurant will along the Monongahela River have expanded outdoor seating, and a local outfitter will rent specialized bikes to assist mobility as pilots to demonstrate how challenged customers and winter equipment to economic development based around the natural extend the season. An antique and gift shop will resource could spur growth and employment. In the expand marketing to attract trail users into town. three years since the program’s launch, more than $1 million has been raised for projects focusing on The contest was funded with $16,000 from the trail development, river accessibility, providing scenic PA Department of Community and Economic views from unforgettable locations and essential Development as well as free services for website tourist services and amenities. Recently, the River and logo development. Town Program published a five-year strategic plan, “The Monongahela River Valley Plan: A Five-Year Endurance Challenges All across the country, endurance races are surging Action Agenda to Increase Tourism to the Region” in popularity. While marathons, 5Ks and 10Ks have and proposed five key regional initiatives geared been around for decades, grueling events that take towards attracting more visitors and businesses to advantage of the challenges and natural beauty of the Monongahela River Valley. the forests and mountains are all the rage — and not Get on the Trail just during the warm months. From 100-mile races to canoe competitions to obstacle courses, these Entrepreneurial new or growing race events are winning widespread Business community support for the boost they give local Contest businesses and how they inspire healthy living and Using natural pride of place. assets like trails and Many times registration for endurance events open rivers to drive economic development is a practice and close within days due to their cult-like followings. that is having growing success across Pennsylvania. Outfitting businesses are getting in on the action too, A new program is rewarding these natural connections realizing their participation in the events can help along the Erie to Pittsburgh Trail. to fuel business. When Country Squirrel Outfitters, formerly located in Colorado, moved their business to The Get on the Trail Entrepreneurial Business Ridgway in the PA Wilds, the owners were surprised Contest, sponsored by the Oil Region Alliance of to see such a vast number of endurance events in Business, Industry and Tourism, offered financial the region, something that was common in Colorado. and technical assistance to new and expanding Race enthusiasts flock to the region for the wildly- businesses that submit solid business plans to provide popular Hyner View Trail Challenge, Megatransect goods and services to trail users. This pilot program, and Prowl the Sproul events. More than 150 diehards now evolving into a business incubator concept, tackle the Frozen Snot Run each year — a 13.5-mile encourages businesses to reach out to a new clientele run over Bald Eagle Mountain during the coldest riding or paddling on the trail or waterway, connecting week of the year. to the downtown business districts along the routes.

See Appendix I for more case studies.

PaOutdoorRecPlan.com 65 p riority • Tourism and Economic Development R ecommendations and Actions

1. 1 Organize and market outdoor recreation 33. Increase access to business development and heritage tourism assets and amenities resources and incentives for small tourism more effectively. and outdoor recreation businesses and entrepreneurs. • ACTION STEPS a. Work with the PA Tourism Partnership to include • ACTION STEPS outdoor recreation and heritage tourism as key a. Seek public-private partnerships to provide components of the state tourism promotion and non-traditional opportunities for outdoor recreation branding strategy, and specifically call out the businesses, leverage outdoor recreation infrastructure significance of trails within this. investments and assist state agencies in cost- b. Establish a state agency workgroup to more effectively delivering outdoor recreation experiences cohesively promote outdoor recreation and heritage across the state. tourism. b. Establish a new loan investor program or more fully c. Work with tourism partners to develop itineraries equip existing programs that provide gap financing for and travel packages that target the outdoor recreation entrepreneurs developing businesses and products product and experiences. based upon the state’s outdoor recreation assets. d. Actively market and promote hunting, fishing and c. Replicate the PA Wilds Small Business Ombudsman recreational shooting opportunities and events to further model in other places in the state to support small engage all audiences in these traditional activities. business development around outdoor recreation assets. e. Obtain a major sponsor to fund a statewide marketing effort promoting Get Outdoors PA to prospective d. Continue the First Industries Loan Fund for Tourism community partners, program providers and the public to support tourism-related businesses that dovetail at large. with outdoor recreation assets and assist continued expansion of the outdoor recreation industry sector in f. Identify gaps and issues with current wayfinding the state. signage for outdoor recreation and heritage destinations, and make recommendations to PennDOT and State 44. Use new and existing research to document Signing Trust. the economic benefits of outdoor recreation, g. Republish the statewide PA Outdoor Adventure heritage tourism and land conservation. Guide bi-annually. • ACTION STEPS 2. 2 Develop and implement a plan for communicating a. Produce a broad, statewide analysis on the benefits the economic and community benefits of and economic impact of all types of recreational trails outdoor recreation, heritage tourism and land including rail trails, hiking trails, water trails, mountain conservation. biking trails, equestrian trails and motorized trails. • ACTION STEPS b. Work with the outdoor recreation industry to produce a statewide assessment of the economic a. Continue the development of the Nature-based impact of outdoor recreation and outdoor recreation- Placemaking Program (e.g. trail towns, river towns, community gateways, etc.), and pilot community based businesses on the state’s economy and projects to provide technical assistance, training, publicize the results with key stakeholders. mentoring and information resources and exchange for c. Through a collaborative effort among agencies local government and business leaders. and partners with an outdoor recreation interest, b. Work with tourism partners and chambers of publish a report every three years that aggregates and commerce to hold at least one meeting per region documents economic impact data and case studies per year that focuses on the value of the outdoor for outdoor recreation. recreation economy and ways to encourage growth in d. Undertake a targeted return-on-investment study this industry sector. around a few specific outdoor recreation infrastructure c. Place case studies, economic data and other investments (e.g. Elk Country Visitor Center, resources on agency and partner websites. critical trail links) to document resulting business d. Develop a short video on model initiatives as a tool development activity and direct economic impact. for building greater awareness on economic benefits to communities.

66 2014–2019 Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Plan p riority • Resource Management and Stewardship

Priority • R esource management and stewardship

sustaining natural resources and public investment

KEY THEMES C hallenges O PPORtunities

• Funding • Funding for infrastructure • Land and water • Maintenance and ongoing maintenance conservation • Hunting and fishing • Meeting demands while • New funding sources heritage maintaining existing • Public-private partnerships infrastructure • Natural gas development and agency collaboration • Improving public access • Land and water • Green practices conservation and • Changing demographics • Reclaiming degraded protection and population growth lands for recreation • Declining participation in • Hunting and fishing hunting and fishing opportunities close to population centers

ennsylvania’s natural areas, parks, diverse entrusted to them, while building and maintaining wildlife, trails, open spaces and other facilities to adequately serve their citizens’ wants and recreational infrastructure and amenities needs. The complexities of natural resource issues are the foundation for each of the other combined with infrastructure maintenance provides priorities listed in this plan. They provide for a very challenging job. the backdrop for healthy communities and a catalyst for local economic development and P Public investment over many years has resulted in an tourism. Their critical role in many aspects of our extensive infrastructure system to support outdoor communities has long been recognized and affirmed by recreation in the commonwealth. We are fortunate to the investments made by state and local governments. Although the local parks priority of this plan addresses have more than 5,600 local parks, 120 state parks, infrastructure challenges and opportunities, resource millions of acres of state forests and state game management and stewardship is a much larger topic, lands, and federal land and water facilities. The which merits its own discussion. existing infrastructure to support outdoor recreation in Pennsylvania is worth billions of dollars. Pennsylvanians expect their parks and recreation areas to be safe, clean, well-maintained and accessible. Just within the Pennsylvania parks and forests Resource managers and parks and recreation providers system alone are 4,700 buildings, 3,720 miles of are challenged with protecting the lands and waters roads, 842 bridges, 180 boat launches and 121 dams.

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The estimated cost to repair and improve those facilities approached $1 billion in 2013. Much of this infrastructure is antiquated, and the need to find adequate funding to cover the cumulating project lists to improve facilities are among the top challenges of park and recreation providers — at the local, state and federal levels, and in all population densities — rural, suburban and urban.

Citizens are stressing the importance of fixing existing facilities, but they also have expectations for the management of their natural resources. In addition to wanting clean, modern and safe facilities, Pennsylvanians want their lands and waters protected. They want clean rivers to fish and boat, open spaces to roam and vast forests to explore. As discovered through surveys, written responses and public meetings, our citizens care deeply about their natural resources and believe their recreation and park providers and government agencies should place high value on them as well.

Protection of wildlife and fish habitat and restoration of watershed. Mitigation strategies are opportunities to damaged rivers and streams ranked high on the priority link to government and non-government programs with list in the Pennsylvania resident survey. They were related resource and recreation goals.26 second and third, after maintaining existing infrastructure, with 84 percent and 81 percent respectively Habitat improvement and protection and land and river believing them to be important priorities for funding. conservation are top charges of the state’s resource These results underscore the importance of habitat management agencies — DCNR, the Fish and Boat conservation measures and water protection as critical Commission and the Game Commission. Other components of outdoor recreation planning. non-profit conservation organizations like land trusts and conservancies also play a significant role in habitat Pennsylvania places high value on its more than and land protection. These agencies and organizations 400,000 acres of wetlands. Many plant and animal spe- often work together to purchase conservation ease- cies are entirely dependent upon wetlands for survival. ments and buy lands of special value that are added Wetlands also function to improve water quality, add to to the overall recreation landscape and help to protect a healthy environment and aid humans in a variety of local ecosystems. The PA Land Trust Association ways, like flood control and water purification. DEP has reports that from 2011-13 nearly 33,000 acres were developed wetland protection and waterway manage- preserved by Pennsylvania’s land trust organizations, ment programs to ensure these sensitive resources are bringing the total acreage preserved to 667,148. protected. Pennsylvania’s various regulatory and non- regulatory programs and strategies since enactment of Most of the state’s seven conservation landscapes the 1988 Wetland Protection Action Plan have led to the have land protection as a key goal. The Pocono Forest achievement of no net loss and, over the past several and Waters landscape houses the greatest concentra- years, a statewide net gain in wetland acreage. In cases tion of wetlands in the state and large tracts of public where impacts to wetlands are unavoidable, compen- and private forested lands. In 2013 alone, partners satory mitigation offsets damages to restore, conserve acquired more than 1,800 additional public acres in and provide long-term resource protection within a that region. In the densely populated Lehigh Valley

68 2014–2019 Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Plan Greenways landscape, land protection and connection Pennsylvania’s water trails also work to improve citizen of critical lands through a system of greenways remains access. Pennsylvania’s Water Trail Partnership has a top priority. Landscape partners have protected 1,500 designated 24 trails suitable for water recreation across acres over the past 10 years in this very urbanized area the state. The partnership has shifted its priority from of the state. creating new trails to improving maintenance of the existing water trails and promotion of the system. One of the challenges of land conservation is the lack of a GIS layer of protected lands to be able to An important part of resource management is track what we have — and what we are losing. For protecting culturally and historically significant areas the hundreds of thousands of acres Pennsylvania has and infrastructure. The state’s heritage areas were preserved, it is estimated that nearly 300 acres are formed for that very purpose and have been working lost to development each day. over the last 25 years to protect and showcase those

In addition to land conservation, resource managers work to protect the vast system S ince the 2009 recreation plan, the Bureau of of rivers and restore those that have been Forestry has acquired 31,500 acres of land. damaged over the years from past industrial practices like mining. Pennsylvania is a river-rich resources that tell the story of how Pennsylvania helped state, with more than 85,000 miles — from tiny brooks to build the nation. Rivers of Steel’s Carrie Furnace, to major navigable waters. These rivers provide the a rare example of pre-World War II iron-making backbone for water-based recreation, particularly technology on the Monongahela River, and Oil Region’s the traditional sports of fishing and boating. River Ida Tarbell House, which is being rehabilitated to exhibit conservation projects are funded each year by DCNR the material culture of Pennsylvania’s oil boom, are and DEP to ensure the health of these water resources. examples of those resources. To help improve public access to recreation, many of these projects include the development of boat A recent resource management challenge that has launches and water trails, stream bank stabilization, emerged since the 2009 recreation plan is shale-gas land acquisition, removal of invasive species and development, which is having an impact not only on planting of native wild species. Over the last five natural resources, but also on recreational resources. years, DCNR has funded the completion of 29 river A small percentage of respondents (17 percent) in conservation projects in the commonwealth. the Pennsylvania resident survey said that they had

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encountered Marcellus-related activities while participating in outdoor recreation; an even smaller percentage (12 percent) said the activity has changed their outdoor recreation behaviors or experiences. These figures rose for those respondents who indicated they lived in northcentral Pennsylvania, where gas-related activity is high (49 percent encountered; 28 percent had their experience changed.)

DCNR’s Bureau of Forestry released a shale-gas monitoring report in 2014 of the impacts of the activity on state forest land. The report showed hiking, particularly in the more heavily recreation infrastructure and create better experiences. developed regions, appears to be the recreation activity For example, although some state forest joint-use most negatively affected by gas drilling. Although shale- roads can no longer be used for snowmobiling due to gas development has yet to affect any national hiking increased truck traffic, pipelines installed adjacent to trails, three designated state forest hiking trails have impacted roads have created new snowmobile trails been closed temporarily or rerouted. Aesthetic changes and improved safety by removing the previous shared- in the landscape and noise from drilling activity are also use situations. contributing to the effects on the hiking experience. Careful evaluations of outcomes and cooperative In some cases where impacts occur, shale-gas planning can help mitigate the impacts of resource development has provided the opportunity to improve extraction on recreational infrastructure. DCNR established a Natural Gas Advisory Committee in 2013 to advise and provide recommendations for implementing natural gas management in a manner that is consistent with the mission of DCNR and its bureaus. In addition to broad gas management issues, the committee is examining a few specific issues that could have an impact on recreation such as noise, air quality and invasive species.

70 2014–2019 Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Plan • Challenge Aging infrastructure and ongoing facility maintenance requires sustained funding sources.

As discussed earlier and in the Local Parks and Recreation priority, parks of the ’60s and ’70s — many funded with federal Land and Water Conservation Fund monies — are in need of modernization and repair. This is true in both urban and rural areas, and can be said of facilities at the municipal, state and federal levels.

Often in times of fiscal crisis, parks and recreation budgets are reduced to keep other areas of Although some cities across the state are recognizing government afloat. Stable, sufficient and consistently the recreation and transportation value of bike lanes growing funding sources are needed to cover and pedestrian accommodations, Pennsylvanians maintenance backlogs and ongoing upkeep. still think there is much room for improvement. In the In large systems of infrastructure, such as resident survey, 54 percent said on-road bike lanes Pennsylvania’s state parks and forests, a sustainable should be increased (second only to overnight cabins). funding source is needed to tackle ongoing mainte- On-road bike lanes were the facility rated the highest nance, which can build at a rate of $100 million a year. in need of improvement (29 percent) by a 10 percent In times of fiscal constraints, funding streams used for margin over the next facility — playgrounds. In 2009, maintenance have been diverted to support operations dog parks ranked as the highest need. of the systems. While each community’s needs might vary, trails always • Challenge consistently rank high among residents’ requests. The trail needs exist on three levels: 1) finishing the Priorities must be set to meet demands while big trails; 2) maintaining the open ones; and 3) bring- maintaining existing infrastructure. ing trails closer to home through small connections. As recreation facilities are built or existing ones are Consideration should be given to investment priorities modified or modernized, recreation providers must take in order to make the most of limited funding. into account new expectations and how they relate to • Challenge people’s willingness to participate in outdoor activities. Access to recreation is a barrier for many. Some people like a rustic and natural condition in parks; others expect modern facilities and the comforts Access is one of the important factors influencing of home as they travel outdoors: flush toilets, modern recreation participation. There are many reasons why bathhouses, the latest recreation equipment and citizens may not have access to outdoor recreation — technology upgrades. from time and distance constraints, to lack of information about resources, to physical inaccessibility. All When assessing priorities for investment, providers Pennsylvanians, including those with disabilities, kids must also consider demographic profiles of the com- and older adults, deserve safe and easy access to munities they serve. For example, while playgrounds recreational facilities. ranked as the highest investment priority for providers, many of their communities are experiencing declining The majority of residents identified the time and populations of young people and the rise of active distance required to get to a recreation facility as a senior populations seeking to get outdoors. very important factor influencing their participation.

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trying to break down these barriers through organized outdoor recreation that offers close-to-home activities at little or no cost to the participant.

Access to rivers is important to Pennsylvanians, and efforts are needed to develop, improve and re-establish public river access in communities. A 2009 Executive Order on Chesapeake Bay Protection and Restoration calls for 300 new access points to be established within the Bay watershed by 2025. Reconnecting citizens to their rivers can have a profound effect by This highlights the need for close-to-home recreation reminding us of the importance of improving the health amenities, which are often local parks, trails or bicycle of our aquatic assets and safeguarding them from paths, but may also include nearby hunting and fishing future degradation. However, creating new access, opportunities. improving existing sites, and reducing pollutants are all very challenging endeavors. Tradition, built infrastruc- A weak biking infrastructure in most communities is ture, funding, safety and liability issues often defeat preventing access to recreational trails and transporta- projects before they even begin. tion corridors for commuting purposes. Trail connections linking existing parks, recreation areas and residential • Challenge communities are an important component to the expan- A changing population will create new sion of bike lanes. Although identified as an infrastruc- user needs. ture challenge, recommendations related specifically to bike and pedestrian infrastructure are discussed in more It is necessary to understand population trends to detail in the Health and Wellness priority. provide services and meet demands. By 2030 Pennsylvania’s population is projected to grow another As Pennsylvania’s population ages, accessibility of 7.4 percent to 13.1 million people. Much of this growth recreation areas to people with limited mobility or will come from ethnic populations, which grew other physical conditions will become more important, 33 percent over the last 10 years. Ethnic populations’ particularly since baby boomers are the only age group recreational preferences, from locations to activities, to exceed the national average for weekly physical activ- may vary greatly from those for which facilities were ity. These citizens will be looking for opportunities for constructed and programs designed over the last few healthy recreation in the outdoors, and facilities should decades. Because this plan’s survey work did not be accessible to them. Because much of the recreation include a wide representation of ethnic populations, infrastructure is decades old, universal design and ADA more outreach is necessary to determine the needs accessibility were not incorporated into design. Now and interests of diverse population groups. updates to these facilities and new infrastructure need to consider access for all. Pennsylvania is also getting older. Already the fourth oldest state in the country, people over 65 are projected Concerns about costs and not knowing available to grow to 23 percent of the state’s population by 2030. opportunities are also cited as barriers to recreation With nearly a quarter of their citizen base over the age participation. Programs such as Get Outdoors PA are of 65, recreation providers will have to adjust facilities

72 2014–2019 Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Plan and programming. An aging population could cause wildlife. Not having hunters and anglers to help to changes in the type of preferred recreation, a need for manage certain populations like white-tailed deer could more localized recreation, and changes in outreach create natural resource challenges. strategies, transportation, and other important recreational services. Aside from wanting to fix aging infrastructure, Pennsylvanians want land managers and recreation • Challenge providers to invest in protecting wildlife and fish habitat People are moving away from Pennsylvania’s and restore damaged rivers and streams. Natural and traditional heritage sports. wild areas, shooting ranges and wildlife viewing areas ranked among the top 10 requested facility needs. Over the past decade, hunting and fishing participation has waned, as time commitments, decreased access Fast growing participation in wildlife viewing could also and age have worked against the sports. Although supplant the loss of hunters and anglers and garner Pennsylvania is still one of the top sportsmen’s states support for the protection of wildlife and fish habitat. in the nation, those agencies charged with the perpetu- ation of hunting and fishing — Pennsylvania’s Game • Opportunity Commission and Fish and Boat Commission — must Land conservation efforts can create new adopt strategies to renew interest in the sports and opportunities for recreation reverse the decline. A demographic analysis shows the trend of people Not only do hunting and fishing provide recreational moving to townships will continue — particularly in enjoyment, but licensed and educated sportsmen Pennsylvania’s southeastern, southern and northeast- are stewards who serve species and habitat manage- ern counties. As land is developed, fewer spaces are ment functions that are vital to the protection of left for the growing populations to enjoy. DCNR and Pennsylvania’s natural resources. The data provided land conservation partners support land conservation by sportsmen are valuable to biologists who manage through a number of methods, including acquisition of lands that are added to state parks and forests, funding for acquisition of conservation lands by local government or nonprofit entities, and funding of the purchase of easements on privately held property. Since 2011, DCNR has conserved over 24,000 acres of land through these efforts. For example, in 2014, Allegheny Land Trust closed on five properties protecting an additional 76 acres including parcels that created trail head access and connected parks.

DCNR’s Bureau of Forestry also acquires new property to add to the 2.2 million-acre state forest system to conserve natural lands and provide additional benefits to Pennsylvanians. Land conservation efforts are focused on inholdings or indentures of land to simplify state forest boundaries; new access points; and high value lands to protect special ecological or recreational resources, such as high-use trails, unique wildlife habitat or exceptional trout streams. Since the 2009 recreation plan, the Bureau of Forestry has acquired more than 31,500 acres of additional land.

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Strategic land acquisitions help to make important connections for citizens’ recreational opportunities. The 107-acre Hawbaker Tract in Peters Township, Franklin County, lies between State Game Lands 124 and an isolated tract of state forest land in Buchanan State Forest. Its recent purchase by the Bureau of Forestry now connects the two state-owned lands and provides protection for the Tuscarora Trail, which runs through the property and was threatened by potential development of the land. Two existing access points along PA Route 16 will provide an opportunity to develop parking for the public. or abandoned well plugging; watershed restoration and protection; baseline water quality data; flood mitigation; • Opportunity abandoned mine drainage abatement and treatment; New funding sources can supplement and greenways, trails and recreation programs. successful programs. The Transportation Act 89 of 2013 created a multimodal As discussed in the Funding and Local Parks and transportation fund that establishes a dedicated funding Recreation priorities, funding is continually a challenge stream of $2 million a year for bicycle and pedestrian for park and recreation providers. There are, however, projects with an emphasis on safety, shared use, pedestrian connectively and partnerships.

I n 2013 alone, volunteers with the PA Parks and Forests The Enhance Penn’s Woods initiative Foundation donated 44,420 hours to state parks and is specifically targeting infrastructure forests, an equivalent value of more than $1 million. needs in state parks and forests. Faced with an infrastructure backlog of close to some new opportunities. Pennsylvania’s Keystone $1 billion, Enhance Penn’s Woods is dedicating more Recreation, Parks and Conservation Fund continues than $200 million over two years (2013-15) to invest in to fund the majority of recreation projects in small and campgrounds, trails, boat access, land acquisition and large communities across the state. Attempts in the much more in Pennsylvania’s state parks and forests. past several years to divert the monies to help fill the

commonwealth’s budget gaps have been thwarted. • Opportunity Nonetheless, the funding still falls far short of meet- Partnerships are maximizing delivery ing recreation demand. DCNR, through the several of services. funding streams under its Community Conservation Especially in an era where limited funding is the norm, Partnerships Program — including the federal Land a more complex delivery of outdoor recreation services and Water Conservation Fund — is typically only requires coordination of state agencies and often able to fund 50 percent of its grant requests in any involves the private sector in a successful model. Good given year. planning at the local level helps to identify roles and priorities for each partner. Helping to bridge the gap are recent sources specifically set aside for recreation, conservation A successful partnership model over the last 15 years and multimodal projects. Act 13’s Marcellus Legacy has been the Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Fund, collected from an impact fee on unconventional Foundation’s support of the state parks and forest natural gas wells, supports conservation projects and systems. This statewide nonprofit organization created environmental protection measures, including: orphan in 1999 has established 39 “friends” groups to operate

74 2014–2019 Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Plan on public lands. Friends groups provide an invaluable The Elk Country Visitor Center in Benezette, Pa. is service of volunteer hours, plus hold fundraising one of the strongest examples of a true public- events to raise money for needed projects in the parks private partnership within the state park and forest and forests. In 2013 alone, these volunteers donated system. Opened in 2010, the center is an ongoing 44,420 hours, an equivalent value of more than $1 example of a success story to sustain Pennsylvania’s million. These groups also raised nearly a quarter of a majestic elk habitat through the partnership of the million dollars through fundraising events, like music non-profit wildlife conservation organization Keystone and history festivals. Elk Country Alliance and DCNR. KECA operates and manages the center and the Elk Mountain Homestead Through private donations, corporate sponsorship and conducts conservation education through and grants, PPFF has helped to fund dozens of stewardship projects and permanent land protection, much-needed projects throughout the park and forest as well as by cooperating with private land owners and system. In 2014, an EZ launch and canoe/kayak rack state natural resource agencies. KECA also assists at Point State Park was installed with PPFF funds to DCNR with marketing and communications related help people with disabilities easily and safely embark to preservation and enhancement of Pennsylvania’s on a water adventure. elk herd.

A public-private effort is helping to renovate the • Opportunity historic lighthouse at Presque Isle State Park in Erie. Green practices can protect, save DCNR entered into a 35-year lease in 2014 with the and educate. newly created Presque Isle Light Station non-profit organization, which is raising funds for restoration Green infrastructure in recreational areas — like of the 141-year-old lighthouse, with the eventual goal pervious pavements, sustainable materials, stormwater of opening the lighthouse to the public. DCNR owns retention, no-mow areas and native plantings — can the lighthouse and land, which has been used over its play a role in conserving and protecting critical natural history as a residence, most recently for state resources, all with the potential to save recreation pro- park staff. viders money. Green infrastructure can be incorporated

Pennsylvania Land and Water Trail Network Plan 2014-2019 27 Pennsylvania’s 2009 outdoor recreation plan focused heavily on trails, and much has been accomplished in this area. Since 2011, an additional 217 trail miles have been built, and state and local projects have invested more than $115 million in trail development. Pennsylvania is now updating its trails strategic plan, which envisions the creation of a truly statewide network of trails. Over 150 trail gaps have been identified and prioritized for funding, and the Trails Advisory Committee is in the process of identifying the top 10 priority trail gaps involving major infrastructure needs. The trails strategic plan makes seven recommendations:

1. Close priority gaps in Pennsylvania’s 4. Develop a marketing strategy to promote statewide land and water trail network to Pennsylvania as a premier land and water achieve the overall goal of having a trail trail destination. within 15 minutes of every citizen. 5. Connect community assets through 2. Coordinate state and federal funding accessible trail networks. programs to leverage maximum 6. Elevate the priority to maintain and improve investment in priority trail projects. existing land and water trails and related 3. Cultivate diverse partnerships to build infrastructure. capacity to address local and regional 7. Promote the economic, environmental, trail needs. and public health benefits of trails through education and outreach.

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into existing facilities and spaces or planned into new • Opportunity projects. For retrofits, energy or conservation audits Former industrial and mine sites and utility can help communities identify where they will realize lands can be reborn as recreation space. the greatest savings and protections. Vestiges of our past resource extraction and industrial Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design development scar landscapes and cities across the certification provides guidelines for communities state. Use of old brownfield sites is a way to preserve and organizations looking to meet strict criteria for and interpret historic connections and reuse old struc- maximum benefit. The Pennsylvania state park and tures in new ways — restaurants, gathering places, forest system has 10 LEED-certified buildings and comfort facilities and education centers. Some of these has instituted dozens of conservation best practices lands are well suited for certain recreation uses like ATV and energy efficiencies that can serve as models for and bicycle trails and fishing and riverfront access. homeowners and other land managers. One example of an innovative use of a brownfield for DCNR’s use of native plants and trees and its aggres- recreation purposes is the Rock Run Recreation Area sive program to eradicate invasive species are not only in Cambria and Clearfield counties. A 6,000-acre improving the aesthetics of recreational areas, they are multi-use, motorized recreation site built on a former also increasing opportunities for recreation. Invasive mine site, Rock Run was the result of a collaboration species have the ability to change a landscape, clog- between multiple state agencies and local organiza- ging lakes, choking streams and taking over popular tions. A similar site recently opened in the eastern part hiking areas and vistas. of the state at the Anthracite Outdoor Adventure Area in Northumberland County. A Green Parks Award program, developed by DCNR in 2012 to showcase best practices being employed at The once industrial landscape and rail yard along the municipal parks, has award winners serving as models Schuylkill River in Philadelphia has been reborn into a of green solutions for park systems across the state. destination now known as the Schuylkill Banks. Starting

76 2014–2019 Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Plan with a riverfront trail more than 15 years ago, the Many people think that good fishing or hunting is only multi-faceted revitalization effort now includes docks, available in the remote wilds of the state, but close-to- an over-the-water boardwalk, fishing piers, connecting home opportunities already exist. Only about half of greenways, and trail and bridge enhancements that residents responding to the citizen survey thought there reconnect thousands to the Schuylkill River. was sufficient access to small and big game hunting opportunities near where they live. Better education Utility lands are being repurposed as recreation and and promotion of the available resources can engage conservation lands as companies are divesting these new audiences who may have noted limited time as lands once held to protect watersheds. Instead of being their reason for not participating. sold for development, these large-scale landscapes can continue their watershed protection role, while The Pennsylvania Game Commission’s Go Hunt PA now improving recreation access. In the Susquehanna website, launched in September 2014, offers many Riverlands conservation landscape, more than 600 resources in a single location to connect hunters to acres owned by PPL have been acquired by the hunting opportunities across the state. Go Hunt PA’s Lancaster County Conservancy and now provide interactive map provides information on state game sweeping overlooks of the Susquehanna River. lands, state park and forest lands, national lands and private lands available for hunting. It also provides • Opportunity seasonally open roads, which help to provide better Access to close-to-home hunting and fishing access to hunters. Go Hunt PA also contains informa- opportunities can sustain Pennsylvania’s tion on what game is in season. Links to events and to heritage sports. sign up for a hunter education class and purchase a hunting license are also provided. As part of a larger Because hunter participation is stagnant or declining marketing campaign, the GoHuntPA site is being widely with both young and old audiences, improved close- promoted via television and radio ads across the state. to-home access through more game lands and private lands easements can help to reverse the decline. The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission conducts Funding for land conservation close to population the Family Fishing Program to reach lapsed anglers centers can increase hunting, fishing and wildlife and non-fishing adults who have children in their viewing opportunities. households. Studies find that recruiting and retaining anglers is more successful when targeting the whole family. From 2010-13, the commission conducted about 450 Family Fishing Programs, reaching more than 15,500 people. Comparisons with similar programs across the country showed the commission’s program consistently ranks among the top five in 10 categories, including increasing participation in the sport, purchasing fishing equipment and improving awareness of where to fish as a result of the program.

26 Pennsylvania Wetlands Update, Appendix G 27 Pennsylvania Land and Water Trail Network Strategic Plan 2014-2019, Appendix H

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Brownfields to Greenfields Mellon Square Maintenance Fund Thanks to a robust brownfields redevelopment Opened in 1955, Mellon Square’s significant program in Pennsylvania, former industrial sites that landscape and Modernist design has brought helped to fuel this nation are being reborn as produc- liveliness and beauty to downtown Pittsburgh for tive spaces. As the country’s first naval shipyard, the almost 60 years. The first modern garden plaza to be Philadelphia Naval Shipyard was one of the main built atop a parking garage, Mellon Square’s design military installations and shipbuilders in the United makes it a forerunner of today’s rooftop gardens. States. Base realignments and closures led to its demise, and by 1995 But by the 1990s, this Modernist masterpiece had nearly all activities fallen into serious disrepair. While good faith efforts ceased at the facility. to care for and restore Mellon Square were made Today, the Navy Yard in past decades, the Achilles heel of lasting results is a thriving 1,200-acre proved to be the maintenance and upkeep of this mixed-use area with unique public space. Indeed, the attributes that more than 140 busi- make Mellon Square so distinct — including its nesses engaged in garage-roof location, multiple fountains on different research, manufacturing and development. More than levels, intricate stonework, and shallow tree and 10,000 are now employed at the site, the same number flower planters — are also those that present of jobs available as when the site was a shipyard in maintenance challenges. its peak years. Incorporated into the campus are 1.5 miles of riverfront trail and 21 acres of green space Understanding and parks. Additional acreage of open space is that a long-term proposed in the Navy Yard’s master plan for vacant maintenance parcels that are slated for future development. plan with secure, Mentored Youth Programs lasting funding was key to The rich history associated with fishing and hunting the future of in Pennsylvania spurred the creation of the Mentored Mellon Square Youth Programs, developed to connect youth to these remaining a valuable asset to the city, the Pittsburgh sports at a younger age. For each of these programs, a mentored youth permit can be purchased, enabling Parks Conservancy made establishing such a fund the youth to hunt or fish with an individual that is of a key component of its restoration plan. The Parks age, 21 for hunting, and Conservancy worked closely with funders in creating 16 for fishing. To further a dedicated and permanent maintenance fund that encourage participa- includes ongoing monitoring of the water, plants and tion, the Fish and Boat stonework for adjustments that may be necessary as Commission conducts one seasonal weather, condensation variations, and other or two Mentored Youth elements intrinsic in a natural setting arise. Fishing Days every year. For every Voluntary Youth The extensive restoration — completed in 2014 License purchased, the PFBC receives five dollars — also included an agreement with the City of back as a federal reimbursement. The funds collected through this event are all directed to support youth Pittsburgh that gives the Parks Conservancy education and outreach programs. The Mentored management responsibilities for Mellon Square. Youth Hunting and Fishing Programs enable youth to With such regimented monitoring and a permanent experience these sports at a young age alongside an maintenance fund in place, the state of this adult mentor who can show and explain the ethics, magnificent public space will remain in excellent safety and enjoyment involved when participating in health for perpetuity. these sports responsibly. See Appendix I for more case studies.

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1. 1 Conserve and protect Pennsylvania’s 22. Maintain existing park, trail and recreation natural places. areas, and prioritize other infrastructure needs. • ACTION STEPS • ACTION STEPS a. Protect critical wildlife habitat, forested watersheds, a. Identify top 10 priority trail gaps and close gaps in wetlands and riparian corridors through conservation five years. planning and easements, nature preserves and land b. Complete Pennsylvania’s five-year strategic plan conservation programs. for land and water trails. b. Restore and repurpose brownfields, abandoned c. Increase full-service overnight amenities at public mine lands and other damaged lands for recreation and private facilities. and conservation purposes through at least five pilot projects. d. Improve ADA access and universal design by updating facilities to meet standards. c. Develop partnerships that include state agencies, volunteer watershed organizations and local govern- e. Coordinate with local, state and heritage organiza- ments to update and implement 25 River Conservation tions to develop management and improvement plans Plans, with a particular focus on restoring rivers for for recreation areas that incorporate strategies for public recreation. managing historic and cultural resources. d. Develop guidance and expand resources at f. Complete the 2013-15 $200 million state park and ConservationTools.org to help organizations and local forest infrastructure improvement plan and PA Parks governments protect wildlife habitat, greenways, and and Forests Foundation’s special projects list. other open spaces; implement appropriate public 33. Cultivate support to protect wildlife and access; and plan for conservation and development fish habitat through wildlife viewing, fishing best suited to the land. and hunting. e. Track conservation progress through the development of a GIS layer of conserved lands. • ACTION STEPS a. Expand successful hunting and fishing programs such as hunter education, field days, mentored youth opportunities and family fishing days, by training local organizations, state and local park personnel and volunteers. b. Enhance access to wildlife viewing, hunting, fishing and shooting sports opportunities close to population centers, and improve communication to connect people to those opportunities. c. Engage the large audience of infrequent hunting and fishing participants with targeted marketing campaigns to encourage them to hunt and fish more frequently. 44. Develop and implement shale-gas best practices for recreation, and pursue new recreation opportunities. • ACTION STEPS a. Mitigate impacts of gas development to recreation, and consider possibilities to develop new recreation opportunities. b. Continually review, examine and promote the range of best management practices and guidance to manage impacts to recreation and natural resources.

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Priority • F unding and financial sustainability ensuring future quality recreation experiences

T he Case for Outdoor Recreation Investment

As noted throughout this plan, Pennsylvanians support state and community re-investment in and improvement to Pennsylvania’s outstanding system of parks, trails and natural areas. Conservation of open space for wildlife habitat and recreation areas and the restoration of rivers and streams are also important to the public.

n fact, Pennsylvanians continue to support recreation and conservation grants leverage significant increased funding for these programs by wide matching funds. From 1996-2012, the Keystone Fund margins. A 2014 Penn State University poll found leveraged $3.13 for every dollar invested. that 97 percent of Pennsylvanians think that state funds dedicated to preserving open space Funding History and farmland, providing parks and trails, and Pennsylvania has a long history of dedicated Iprotecting rivers and streams should continue to be conservation and recreation funding through bond used for these purposes. Furthermore, 82 percent of issues (Project 70, Growing Greener Bonds I and survey respondents support increasing state funds for II) and dedicated funding sources like the Keystone these purposes even if that would cost the average Recreation, Park and Conservation Fund and the household $10 more annually.28 Environmental Stewardship Fund. Since 1995, the Keystone Fund alone has provided more than State and federal investment in recreation and $710 million to recreation and conservation projects, conservation — our state’s green infrastructure — distributed in each of the state’s 67 counties, through provides a host of natural services including flood grants and matching funding. In 2012, Act 13 directed control, drinking water protection and reduction in air additional funding to the Environmental Stewardship pollution. In 2013, the Trust for Public Land analyzed Fund and also provides funding to the Commonwealth the return on investment of the Keystone Recreation, Financing Authority for greenways, trails and recreation Park and Conservation Fund. Their study found that grants and to each county in the state for conservation for every $1 invested in land and water conservation, and recreation purposes. $7 in natural goods and services is returned to Pennsylvania.29 Studies nationally and in Pennsylvania Demand for recreation and conservation funds remains have demonstrated the economic impact of trail high. In 2013, nearly 40 percent of projects submitted development through new small businesses, increased for funding from all DCNR sources (Keystone, property values and increased spending from new Environmental Stewardship, LWCF, Recreational Trails) visitors to an area. It is also well-documented that went unfunded.

80 2014–2019 Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Plan In years past, DCNR was able to fund, on average, less Corps of Engineers owns and operates a number of than half of grant dollars requested using all funding large reservoirs that provide popular recreational boat- sources (Keystone, Growing Greener I and II, and ing and paddling opportunities, including Raystown LWCF). In the 2014 grant round, demand exceeded Lake in southcentral Pennsylvania and dam release- funding by nearly $41 million. (Figure 13) powered white water runs on the Lehigh River.

Pennsylvania’s Federal Lands and Resources From the Gettysburg Battlefield to Independence Hall in Compared to other eastern states, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is home to 15 national parks, five Pennsylvania has a wealth of national heritage areas, and 26 national natural landmarks. federal recreational land within its borders. The first national wild and scenic river From the Gettysburg Battlefield to Independence Hall in the country was the Delaware, which forms the in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is home to 15 national commonwealth’s eastern border. The Delaware Water parks, five national heritage areas, and 26 national Gap National Recreational Area protects critical habitat natural landmarks. Pennsylvania’s system of heritage while offering spectacular views, as well as paddling, areas also includes 12 state-designated heritage areas, rafting and hiking on a portion of the Appalachian Trail. which for the past 20 years have been innovators in In 2008, Pennsylvania gained a new national wildlife regional community conservation and revitalization, refuge designation with Cherry Valley, in northeastern heritage tourism, greenway preservation and story- Pennsylvania. The Allegheny National Forest covers telling. Pennsylvania also hosts several national trails, more than half a million acres of forested land in including the Appalachian National Scenic Trail, the northwestern Pennsylvania, providing hundreds of trail Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail, the North miles, recreational lakes and reservoirs, stream miles, Country Trail and the Washington Rochambeau and outstanding hunting and fishing habitat. The Army Revolutionary Route National Historic Trail.

F igure 13: DCNR Applications Received Versus Funded, 2008-2014

683 2008 308

653 2009 175

437 2010 262

354 2011 231

347 2012 200

371 2013 217

2014 374 219

= Received = Funded Source: DCNR

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Land and Water Conservation Fund The Land and Water Conservation Fund, established in 1965, protects large landscapes and helps local communities acquire and develop parks. Through the Federal Land Protection Program, over $155 million has helped to protect places such as the Gettysburg National Military Park, Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, and the Appalachian Trail. On the state level, the National Park Service has funded more than 1,500 projects through $165 million in LWCF matching grants to Pennsylvania communities.

However, in recent years those federal funds have been greatly reduced. Pennsylvania’s network of protected lands, including 1,400 LWCF-protected sites, need continual re-investment and improvements to assure that they remain accessible and readily available for public recreation. LWCF helped Pennsylvania establish one of the finest state and local park systems in the nation. The lack of full funding continues to stress these

DCNR’s Community Conservation Partnerships Program Funding Sources

The Keystone Recreation, Park Heritage Areas Funding Federal Highway Administration and Conservation Fund (Key 93) Act 46 of 2010 established the Penn- funds to the Pennsylvania Generated from a portion of Realty sylvania Heritage Areas Program within Recreational Trails program Transfer Tax, the Keystone Fund is DCNR to identify, protect, enhance and Funding for the Recreational DCNR’s primary source of funding to promote the historic, recreational, natural Trails Program is provided to the support grants for recreation and land and cultural resources of the common- commonwealth through the Federal conservation. Grants are available for wealth. Heritage areas funding supports Highway Administration. Grants are community recreation for planning, the implementation of these activities via available for the construction, renovation development and land acquisition; rivers the state’s 12 designated heritage areas and maintenance of trails and trail- conservation plans and projects; land and is contingent upon appropriation related facilities for both motorized and

trust projects; and trails projects. through the state budget process. non-motorized recreational trails, the purchase or lease of equipment for trail The Environmental Stewardship Snowmobile and ATV Fund maintenance and construction, and the Generated from snowmobile and ATV Fund (Growing Greener I) development of educational materials registration fees, grants are available Funding for ESF is from tipping fees and programs. placed on disposal of municipal waste for the planning, acquisition of land, and from the Marcellus Legacy Fund development and maintenance of Federal Land and Water areas and facilities for snowmobile and (Act 13) of 2012. DCNR’s portion of the Conservation Fund (LWCF) all-terrain vehicle use; the purchase or fund is invested in state park and forestry Generated from revenue received from lease of equipment for trail construction facilities as well as grants for greenways, off-shore leasing for oil and gas on and maintenance; and the development trails, open space, natural areas, river the Outer Continental Shelf, grants are of educational materials and programs. corridors and watersheds, community available for general public outdoor parks and recreation and other projects park, recreation and conservation, land to conserve the biological diversity of acquisition and development projects. the commonwealth.

82 2014–2019 Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Plan T able 1: Summary of Recreation Project Funding Need by Category

Category Amount Notes

Local Park and Rec Funding $22 million Based on 2014 DCNR Grant Application Demand Acquisition/Land Conservation $30 million Based on 2014 DCNR Grant Application Demand Greenways/Trails $15 million Based on 2014 DCNR Grant Application Demand River Infrastructure/Access $1.5 million Based on 2014 DCNR Grant Application Demand DCNR estimate for needed construction, energy State Park $400 million improvements and other non-maintenance projects, 2015-19 State Forest $315 million DCNR estimate for infrastructure needs, including roads

Source: DCNR resources, and the restoration of LWCF to the fully conservation and recreation priorities of the public. authorized level is critical to maintain Pennsylvania’s The plan’s public input process and survey research recreational areas. In addition, LWCF will sunset in results have identified top priorities for federal and 2015. Re-authorization of this law is necessary in order matching recreation and conservation funding. to move Pennsylvania’s recreation and conservation Pennsylvania’s priorities for the expenditure of LWCF agenda forward. funds over the next five years include:

Recommendations • Acquisition of critical wildlife habitat, forested The importance of these permanent conservation and watersheds, wetlands and riparian corridors recreation funding sources cannot be underestimated, • Rehabilitation of existing local parks with a focus and, in turn, the importance of continued education of on playground replacement and upgrades the public about these sources is critical. Furthermore, over the next five years the funding of LWCF at fully These priorities reflect the interest in investing authorized levels could significantly advance the and reinvesting in the green infrastructure of the commonwealth.

Federal and state funds alone will never be enough to continue to maintain and expand Pennsylvania’s green infrastructure and move the comprehensive recommendations in this plan forward. Partnerships with the state’s philanthropic community, the outdoor recreation industry and local business interests can provide critical leverage and help grow the funds available. In addition, since most Pennsylvanians recognize that parks, trails and open space are essential components of our health care system, partnerships with health care providers, community health foundations and park and recreation professionals can be a tool to increase awareness and funding.

28 Center for Survey Research, Penn State Harrisburg, 2014 Poll. http://csr.hbg.psu.edu/Portals/44/Press Release_TPL_Nature Conservancy_Spring 2014 PSP.pdf 29 “Pennsylvania’s Return on Investment in the Keystone, Recreation, Park, and Conservation Fund,” The Trust for Public Land, 2013. http://www.tpl.org/return-investment-pas-keystone-fund

PaOutdoorRecPlan.com 83 p riority • Funding and Financial Sustainability R ecommendations and Actions

1. 1 Ensure the continued stability and permanence 2. 2 Foster use of new revenue sources in support of existing state and federal conservation and of recreation and conservation. recreation funding sources. • ACTION STEPS • ACTION STEPS a. Explore and identify creative strategies to a. Advocate for the re-authorization of the LWCF to expand state and local funding for conservation include state funding at fully authorized levels through and recreation. support letters and celebratory events. b. Provide technical assistance to local governments b. Advocate for the continued inclusion of the and charitable organizations for establishing local federal Recreational Trails Program and Transportation acquisition programs as authorized by the newly Alternative Program as part of the national amended Pennsylvania Open Space Law. transportation funding. c. Educate user groups, decision makers and c. Convene a state funding coordination team to assure beneficiaries of state funding sources to maintain projects are coordinated, leveraged and funded with support for and expand awareness and the most appropriate funding sources. understanding of these funding sources. d. Develop a 25-year anniversary report (2018) 3. 3 Prioritize the use of federal LWCF funds that celebrating the Keystone Recreation, Park and come to Pennsylvania over the next five years. Conservation Fund contributions to Pennsylvania’s state and local parks and conservation areas. • ACTION STEPS a. Set the acquisition of critical wildlife habitat, forested watersheds, wetlands and riparian corridors for nature-based recreation as a LWCF priority. b. Set rehabilitation of existing local parks with a focus on playground replacement and upgrades as a LWCF priority.

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S ummary of Programmatic Recommendations and Action Steps

his chart summarizes all programmatic recommendations and action steps in the 2014-2019 Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Plan. Partners included are Technical Advisory Committee Tmembers who have affirmed their commitment to implementing plan recommendations, as well as suggested partners who are knowledgeble about the topics. A list of partner acronyms can be found at the end of the matrix. The plan recommends continuing the TAC to help oversee plan implementation, and the development of work groups for priority action items as needed.

H ealth and Wellness: Promoting Healthy Living Through Outdoor Connections

Recommendations and Action Steps Implementing Partners

1. Reconnect people to the outdoors through recreation opportunities and experiences. a. Celebrate Get Outdoors PA annually with special Get Outdoors Days Get Outdoors PA Flagship and hosted by regional community partners that offer instructional programs Community Partners for various outdoor recreation activities.

b. Provide templates to state and local parks agencies for them to list amenities, resources and educational materials so schools and youth- DCNR, DOH, PDE, PRPS, PSAHPERD, based organizations can more easily incorporate local outdoor activities PHMC, PRO Wellness into curricula.

c. Use the PA Department of Health’s 15 pilot school districts to develop, DOH, PDE, DCNR, PSAPHERD, implement and evaluate comprehensive school physical activity programs, Pro Wellness, PennDOT, and identify opportunities to connect youth to the outdoors through University of Pittsburgh places for physical activity.

d. Provide a best-practices forum to encourage local efforts to use Get Outdoors PA Flagship Partners, technology to design and develop programs that link people to PSAPHERD the outdoors.

e. Identify partner organizations to spearhead at least five programs that encourage participation in outdoor recreation opportunities by diverse DCNR, Advisory Commissions populations with guidance from the Governor’s advisory commissions on African American, Asian American and Latino affairs.

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Recommendations and Action Steps Implementing Partners 2. Continue to strengthen connections between outdoor recreation and health in communities for people of all ages and abilities. a. Fund and support pilot programs with innovative partnerships that build a health and wellness connection with outdoor recreation programming, DOH, DCNR, PPFF, DOA emphasizing active recreation, diverse populations and volunteer recruitment and training.

b. Link state grant program criteria to community projects designed to DCNR, DOH, PennDOT strengthen the health and outdoor recreation connection.

c. Develop educational materials and best practices to highlight and encourage local successes in linking outdoor recreation and health for DCNR, DOH, PRO Wellness, PRPS planning, recreation, community and health care leaders.

d. Identify and work with five pilot communities, representing specific population groups, to develop and distribute materials that highlight DCNR, DOA, DOH, PDC, LVCIL available outdoor amenities and correlating fitness benefits.

3. Examine the built environment and encourage local communities to promote healthful transportation alternatives.

a. Continue to align PennDOT and DCNR trail development, including PennDOT, DCNR, RTC, DCED, bicycle and pedestrian trail coordination and grant making. MPOs, RPOs

b.Develop land use planning guidelines and best practices to integrate outdoor and green infrastructure initiatives within multi-municipal DCNR, DCED, PALTA, CCAP comprehensive plans and/or greenway and open space plans.

c. Provide guidelines and technical assistance to help communities conduct PennDOT, DCNR, DCED, DOH, RTC, walkability and bikeability assessments and apply for national recognition CCAP, PDC, PSATS as bicycle- and/or walk-friendly communities.

d. Provide technical assistance to communities to consider the addition of bicycle lanes, where appropriate, during the planning process for PennDOT, MPOs, RPOs, CCAP transportation projects.

e. Provide technical assistance to help communities and school districts take advantage of multimodal and transportation alternative funding PennDOT, DCED, PDE, PRO Wellness opportunities in PennDOT, DCED and the Commonwealth Financing Authority to address challenges in the built environment. 4. Enhance and promote healthful outdoor recreation through strategic partnerships with the health care community. a. Develop Pennsylvania-specific park/trail “prescription” programs to encourage physical activity in the outdoors in cooperation with health care providers, insurance companies, health foundations, economic DOH, DCNR, PRPS, PRO Wellness development organizations, local government associations and social service providers.

b. Encourage partnerships between recreation and planning professionals and the health care community to identify private funding opportunities, DOH, DCNR, PDC cooperate in community wellness efforts and implement community health assessment strategies.

c. Convene statewide and regional summits that bring together health DOH, DCNR, PRPS, PPFF, PALTA, PDC, care and parks and recreation professionals to explore ways to improve SGP, Heritage Areas, Conservation physical activity through outdoor recreation. Landscapes, PRO Wellness

86 2014–2019 Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Plan L ocal Parks And Recreation: Enhancing Close-To-Home Outdoor Recreation

Recommendations and Action Steps Implementing Partners

1. Connect citizens to close-to-home recreational opportunities and green space. a. Develop a diverse collection of park and playground designs that exemplify green practices, appeal to all ages and abilities, create DCNR, PRPS, LVCIL, Local Recreation whole-family recreation spaces and incorporate popular and innovative and Parks Departments trends in recreation. b. Launch a mobile-friendly website for residents to easily find local parks DCNR, CCAP, PEC, Local Recreation and collect photos, stories and amenities from users. and Parks Departments c. Identify and take steps to reduce barriers so that every citizen has equal DCNR, TPL, LVCIL, Local Recreation access to local and school parks and outdoor recreation opportunities. and Parks Departments d. Develop research to explore recreation needs and behaviors of PSU, DCNR, Advisory Commissions African Americans, Hispanics and other ethnic groups. 2. Position local park facilities and recreation programs as essential services. a. Challenge local communities to increase the portion of their municipal PSAB, PLM, DCNR, budget dedicated to parks and recreation to at least 5 percent over the CCAP, PRPS, Local Recreation next five years. and Parks Departments b. Implement the recommended approach developed by Penn State PRPS, DCNR University to assess the economic impact of local parks and recreation. c. Develop a unified brand for local parks and recreation with accompanying PRPS, DCNR, PSAB, PSATS, marketing strategy, toolkit and training that helps providers communicate PLM, CCAP the benefits and value of local parks and recreation. d. Establish a gold medal award program for Pennsylvania local park and PRPS, DCNR recreation agencies.

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Recommendations and Action Steps Implementing Partners 3. Create and leverage partnerships that expand outdoor recreation opportunities.

a. Partner with educators to expand environmental stewardship opportunities to increase efficiency, encourage local and state collaboration, focus on PDE, DCNR, ATC common priorities and increase youth involvement.

b. Increase the number of outdoor recreation events available to all regions Get Outdoors PA Flagship and of the state by adding 100 new community partners to Get Outdoors PA. Community Partners

c. Identify and promote strategic, alternative and non-traditional revenue PRPS, DCNR sources for recreation programming and local parks.

d. Encourage educational institutions to partner with local communities to share resources through mechanisms such as joint-use agreements and PRPS, DOH, PDE collaborative programming.

e. Support the creation of friends and advocacy groups to assist park and PRPS, PPFF, PALTA, DCNR, Heritage recreation providers in protecting, enhancing and interpreting natural Areas, Conservation Landscapes resources, local parks and heritage areas. 4. Coordinate strategic investment in local priorities and respond to emerging trends.

a. Work with all 67 counties to identify gaps in local outdoor recreation opportunities, and provide support and technical assistance to advance CCAP, DCNR, DCED, Heritage Areas recreation and conservation planning and implementation.

b. Collect nominations from local communities to create a Top 10 most PRPS, DCNR, PSATS, PSAB, endangered parks list, and partner with state and local agencies to target CCAP, PLM, PHMC funding to revitalize these parks.

c. Create a new Rural Communities Leadership Team to develop an action DCNR, CRP, PSATS, PSAB, plan including implementation, funding and volunteer recruitment PRPS, USDA, CCAP strategies for local parks and recreation in rural areas.

d. Create a Natural Play Area Pilot Program to develop and monitor natural DCNR play areas.

e. Implement the PA Urban Park and Recreation Alliance action plan PA Urban Park and Recreation for local parks and recreation in municipalities with populations over Alliance Leadership Team 10,000 residents. 5. Provide expanded parks and recreation technical assistance to communities.

a. Develop a Maintenance Institute promoting low-maintenance design, PRPS, DCNR, RTC, PA Urban Park and preventative maintenance, green and sustainable design and other Recreation Alliance Leadership Team practices that will reduce maintenance costs.

b. Expand Recreation and Parks Technical Assistance Program and the Peer Program to encourage multi-municipal and county-based agencies DCNR, PRPS, Heritage Areas through increased promotion and funding to municipalities.

c. Enhance DCNR’s local parks web-based resources to feature best practices and resources on emerging topics such as green and DCNR sustainable practices, funding, partnerships, technology and stewardship education.

d. Hold a Recreation and Conservation Leadership Summit, and launch a Leadership Development and Mentoring Program for parks, recreation and PRPS, DCNR resource management professionals.

88 2014–2019 Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Plan T ourism And Economic Development: Creating Opportunities for Community Prosperity

Recommendations and Action Steps Implementing Partners 1. Organize and market outdoor recreation and heritage tourism assets and amenities more effectively. a. Work with the PA Tourism Partnership to include outdoor recreation DCED, DCNR, PDA, PTP, TPAs, and heritage tourism as key components of the state tourism promotion PATT, PEC, PHMC, Heritage Areas, and branding strategy, and specifically call out the significance of trails Conservation Landscapes within this. b. Establish a state agency workgroup to more cohesively promote outdoor DCNR, PFBC, PGC, PHMC, PDA, DCED, recreation and heritage tourism. Heritage Areas c. Work with tourism partners to develop itineraries and travel packages TPAs, CVBs, PATT, PTP, PDC, that target the outdoor recreation product and experiences. Heritage Areas d. Actively market and promote hunting, fishing and recreational shooting PGC, PFBC, NWTF, TU, PFSC, TPAs, opportunities and events to further engage all audiences in these Sportsmen’s Organizations traditional activities. e. Obtain a major sponsor to fund a statewide marketing effort promoting Get Outdoors PA to prospective community partners, program providers Get Outdoors PA Flagship Partners and the public at large. f. Identify gaps and issues with current wayfinding signage for outdoor PennDOT, State Signing Trust, recreation and heritage destinations, and make recommendations to Heritage Areas, DCNR, DCED, PennDOT and State Signing Trust. PHMC, TPAs, RPOs, MPOs g. Republish the statewide PA Outdoor Adventure Guide bi-annually. DCED, DCNR, PFBC, PGC 2. Develop and implement a plan for communicating the economic and community benefits of outdoor recreation, heritage tourism and land conservation. a. Continue the development of the Nature-based Placemaking Program PDC, DCNR, PPFF, PHMC, (e.g. trail towns, river towns, gateway communities, etc.), and pilot PEC, SGP, Heritage Areas, community projects to provide technical assistance, training, mentoring Conservation Landscapes, and information resources and exchange for local government and Progress Fund Trail Towns Program business leaders. b. Work with tourism partners and chambers of commerce to hold at least DCED, TPAs, DCNR, PPFF, PTP, PATT, one meeting per region per year that focuses on the value of the outdoor PDC, Heritage Areas recreation economy and ways to encourage growth in this industry sector.

DCED, PGC, PFBC, DCNR, PDC, c. Place case studies, economic data and other resources on agency and PALTA, Heritage Areas, Conservation partner websites. Landscapes, County and Regional Economic Development Agencies d. Develop a short video on model initiatives as a tool for building greater DCNR, PGC, PFBC, DCED, PDC awareness on economic benefits to communities.

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Recommendations and Action Steps Implementing Partners 3. Increase access to business development resources and incentives for small tourism and outdoor recreation businesses and entrepreneurs. a. Seek public-private partnerships to provide non-traditional opportunities for outdoor recreation businesses, leverage outdoor recreation DCED, DCNR, PDC infrastructure investments and assist state agencies in cost-effectively delivering outdoor recreation experiences across the state.

b. Establish a new loan investor program or more fully equip existing programs that provide gap financing for entrepreneurs developing DCED, LDDs, RPOs, IDAs, businesses and products based upon the state’s outdoor Progress Fund recreation assets.

c. Replicate the PA Wilds Small Business Ombudsman model in other Conservation Landscapes, places in the state to support small business development around outdoor Heritage Areas, DCED recreation assets.

d. Continue the First Industries Loan Fund for Tourism to support tourism- related businesses that dovetail with outdoor recreation assets and assist DCED continued expansion of the outdoor recreation industry sector in the state. 4. Use new and existing research to document the economic benefits of outdoor recreation, heritage tourism and land conservation. a. Produce a broad, statewide analysis on the benefits and economic impact PA Trails Advisory Committee, of all types of recreational trails including rail trails, hiking trails, water Trail Stakeholder Organizations trails, mountain biking trails, equestrian trails and motorized trails.

b. Work with the outdoor recreation industry to produce a statewide assessment of the economic impact of outdoor recreation and outdoor PTP, DCNR, DCED recreation-based businesses on the state’s economy and publicize the results with key stakeholders.

c. Through a collaborative effort among agencies and partners with an outdoor recreation interest, publish a report every three years that DCNR, PFBC, PGC, DCED, aggregates and documents economic impact data and case studies for USFWS, NPS, ANF outdoor recreation.

d. Undertake a targeted return-on-investment study around a few specific outdoor recreation infrastructure investments (e.g. Elk Country Visitor DCNR, DCED, PDC Center, critical trail links) to document resulting business development activity and direct economic impact.

90 2014–2019 Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Plan R esource Management and Stewardship: Sustaining Natural Resources and Public Investments

Recommendations and Action Steps Implementing Partners 1. Conserve and protect Pennsylvania’s natural places. a. Protect critical wildlife habitat, forested watersheds, wetlands and riparian corridors through conservation planning and easements, nature preserves PALTA, DCNR, PGC, TU, Land Trusts and land conservation programs. b. Restore and repurpose brownfields, abandoned mine lands and other damaged lands for recreation and conservation purposes through at least DCNR, DEP, PEC, PHMC five pilot projects. c. Develop partnerships that include state agencies, volunteer watershed organizations and local governments to update and implement DCNR, DEP, PEC/POWR, TU, 25 River Conservation Plans, with a particular focus on restoring rivers Conservation Districts for public recreation. d. Develop guidance and expand resources at ConservationTools.org to help organizations and local governments protect wildlife habitat, greenways, PALTA and other open spaces; implement appropriate public access; and plan for conservation and development best suited to the land. e. Track conservation progress through the development of a GIS layer PALTA, DCNR, CCAP of conserved lands. 2. Maintain existing park, trail and recreation areas, and prioritize other infrastructure needs.

PA Trails Advisory Committee, a. Identify top 10 priority trail gaps and close gaps in five years. Trail Stakeholder Organizations, RTC, PennDOT, DCNR, MPOs, RPOs,

PA Trails Advisory Committee, b. Complete Pennsylvania’s five-year strategic plan for land and water trails. PA Water Trail Partnership, Trail Stakeholder Organizations

DCNR, PA Campground c. Increase full-service overnight amenities at public and private facilities. Owners Association d. Improve ADA access and universal design by updating facilities to DCNR, LVCIL meet standards. e. Coordinate with local, state and heritage organizations to develop DCNR, PHMC, Heritage Areas, management and improvement plans for recreation areas that incorporate Conservation Landscapes strategies for managing historic and cultural resources. f. Complete the 2013-15 $200 million state park and forest infrastructure improvement plan and PA Parks and Forests Foundation’s special DCNR, PPFF projects list.

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Recommendations and Action Steps Implementing Partners

3. Cultivate support to protect wildlife and fish habitat through wildlife viewing, fishing and hunting.

a. Expand successful hunting and fishing programs such as hunter PGC, PFBC,TU, NWTF, PFSC, education, field days, mentored youth opportunities and family fishing Get Outdoors PA Partners, days by training local organizations, state and local park personnel Sportsmen’s Organizations and volunteers.

b. Enhance access to wildlife viewing, hunting, fishing and shooting sports PGC, PFBC, TU, NWTF, PFSC, opportunities close to population centers, and improve communication to Sportsmen’s Organizations connect people to those opportunities.

c. Engage the large audience of infrequent hunting and fishing participants with targeted marketing campaigns to encourage them to hunt and fish PGC, PFBC, TU, NWTF, PFSC more frequently. 4. Develop and implement shale-gas best practices for recreation, and pursue new recreation opportunities

a. Mitigate impacts of gas development to recreation, and consider DCNR, DEP, PA Wilds Planning Team possibilities to develop new recreation opportunities.

b. Continually review, examine and promote the range of best management practices and guidance to manage impacts to recreation and DCNR, DEP natural resources.

92 2014–2019 Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Plan F unding: Ensuring Long-Term Financial Stability for Recreation and Conservation

Recommendations and Action Steps Implementing Partners 1. Ensure the continued stability and permanence of existing state and federal conservation and recreation funding sources. a. Advocate for the re-authorization of the LWCF to include state funding at PLM, PALTA, PSATS, PRPS, PSAB, fully authorized levels through support letters and celebratory events. DCNR, TPL b. Advocate for the continued inclusion of the federal Recreational Trails PennDOT, DCNR, RTC, ATC, PEC, Trail Program and Transportation Alternative Program as part of the national Stakeholder Organizations transportation funding. c. Convene a state funding coordination team to assure projects are coordinated, leveraged and funded with the most appropriate PennDOT, DCNR, DCED, DEP funding sources. d. Develop a 25-year anniversary report (2018) celebrating the Keystone Recreation, Park and Conservation Fund contributions to Pennsylvania’s PALTA, PPFF, PRPS, DCNR, PEC state and local parks and conservation areas. 2. Foster use of new revenue sources in support of recreation and conservation. a. Explore and identify creative strategies to expand state and local funding PRPS, PALTA, PPFF, DCNR, TPL for conservation and recreation. b. Provide technical assistance to local governments and charitable organizations for establishing local acquisition programs as authorized PALTA, PSATS, TPL by the newly amended Pennsylvania Open Space Law. c. Educate user groups, decision makers and beneficiaries of state funding PALTA, PRPS, PPFF, RTC, PEC, PSATS, sources to maintain support for and expand awareness and understanding PLM, PSAB, CCAP of these funding sources. 3. Prioritize the use of federal LWCF funds that come to Pennsylvania over the next five years. a. Set the acquisition of critical wildlife habitat, forested watersheds, wetlands DCNR and riparian corridors for nature-based recreation as a LWCF priority. b. Set rehabilitation of existing local parks with a focus on playground DCNR replacement and upgrades as a LWCF priority.

PaOutdoorRecPlan.com 93 A cronyms for Agencies, Organizations and Terms Referred to in Plan

ADA Americans with Disabilities Act PennDOT* Pennsylvania Department of Transportation ANF Allegheny National Forest PFBC* Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission ATC Appalachian Trail Conservancy PFSC Pennsylvania Federation of ATV All-Terrain Vehicle Sportsmen’s Clubs CCAP County Commissioners Association PGC* Pennsylvania Game Commission of Pennsylvania PHMC* Pennsylvania Historical and Museum CDC Center for Disease Control Commission CFA Commonwealth Financing Authority PLM Pennsylvania League of Municipalities CRP Center for Rural PA POWR Pennsylvania Organization for Watersheds and Rivers CVB Convention and Visitors Bureau PPFF Pennsylvania Parks & Forests Foundation DCED* Department of Community and Economic Development PRPS Pennsylvania Recreation & Park Society DCNR* Department of Conservation and PSAB Pennsylvania State Association Natural Resources of Boroughs DEP* Department of Environmental Protection PSAHPERD Pennsylvania State Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance DOA* Department of Aging PSSA Pennsylvania State Snowmobile DOH* Department of Health Association GIS Geographic Information Systems PSATS Pennsylvania State Association IDA Industrial Development Authority of Township Supervisors KECA Keystone Elk Country Alliance PSU Pennsylvania State University KTA Keystone Trails Association PTP Pennsylvania Tourism Partnership LDD Local Development District RPO Regional Planning Organization LEED Leadership in Energy and RTC Rails-to-Trails Conservancy Environmental Design SCORP Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor LVCIL Lehigh Valley Center for Recreation Plan Independent Living SGP Susquehanna Greenway Partnership LWCF Land and Water Conservation Fund TAC Technical Advisory Committee MPO Metropolitan Planning Organization NPS National Park Service TPA Tourism Promotion Agency NWTF National Wild Turkey Federation TPL Trust for Public Land OHV Off-Highway Vehicle TU Trout Unlimited PALTA Pennsylvania Land Trust Association ULI Urban Land Institute PATT Pennsylvania Association of Travel USDA U.S. Department of Agriculture and Tourism USFWS U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service PDA* Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture PDC Pennsylvania Downtown Center PDE* Pennsylvania Department of Education *Indicates Pennsylvania state agency PEC Pennsylvania Environmental Council

94 2014–2019 Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Plan Photo credits Tom Gettings, Gettings Photography: cover (top, bottom), pages 1, 6, 7, 9-12, 14, 16, 17 (top), 21, 22, 24, (bottom), 26, 29, 31, 33-35, 37, 38, 40, 41, 47-49, 56, 59, 60-64, 67-69, 71, 76, 80-82, 84, 85, 89-94 Philadelphia Parks & Recreation: pages 13, 15, 17 (bottom), 32, 46, 52, 57, 87, back cover (bottom) PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, pages 18, 20, 30, 59, 70 (bottom) Reading Recreation Commission: pages 4, 36, 44, 51 Bud Wills, pages 19, 70, 75 Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor: pages 3, 58 Lancaster Recreation Commission: pages 44, 50 Bethlehem Recreation Department: cover (middle) PA Fish and Boat Commission, page 24 (top) PA Parks & Forests Foundation: page 73 Andy Mowen, page 25 Joe Kosack, page 77 Hal Korber, page 83 Charles Shanaberger, back cover (top) p aoutdoorrecplan.com

Tom Wolf, Governor Cindy Adams Dunn, Acting Secretary